At a Glance
- Tasks: Support strategic sourcing and manage supplier relationships in a global defence organisation.
- Company: Join BAE Systems, a globally recognised leader in defence procurement.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and a supportive professional environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative team.
- Why this job: Make an impact on complex procurement projects while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are currently seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to join the Indirect Procurement Services team at BAE Systems. This is an exciting opportunity to support strategic sourcing and category management activities across key CAPEX and indirect procurement projects within a global defence organisation.
The Role
Reporting to the Procurement Manager, you will play a key role in delivering procurement strategies, managing supplier relationships and supporting procurement excellence across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the development and execution of sourcing and category strategies
- Manage RFQ/tender processes and supplier negotiations
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers
- Drive value through effective category, risk and opportunity management
- Support procurement pipeline visibility and compliance activities
- Identify and implement process improvements and best practice initiatives
About You:
- Proven procurement experience within indirect procurement or category management
- Strong experience managing RFQ/tender processes and supplier negotiations
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
- Strong commercial awareness and problem-solving capability
- Experience delivering cost-effective sourcing strategies and supplier performance management
Desirable Experience
- Procuring Plant & Equipment and/or minor construction projects
- CIPS Level 5 qualification (or working towards)
- Experience leading or mentoring team members
Why Join?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a collaborative and globally recognised organisation, working on complex procurement activities within a highly professional and supportive environment. Please note: Due to the nature of the work, successful applicants will be required to meet BPSS/security clearance requirements.
Senior Buyer in Paisley employer: Outsource UK
BAE Systems is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth. With a focus on strategic sourcing within the defence sector, employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements, competitive pay, and opportunities to engage in meaningful projects that drive innovation and excellence. Join us at our Scotstoun location to be part of a globally recognised team dedicated to making a difference in procurement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Paisley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing RFQ processes and supplier negotiations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in procurement. This will demonstrate your commercial awareness and ability to drive value.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in Paisley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your experience in indirect procurement and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team at BAE Systems. Share specific examples of your procurement successes and how you can contribute to our strategic sourcing efforts.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills:Since building relationships is key in this role, make sure to highlight your stakeholder engagement experience. We love to see how you've managed relationships with suppliers and internal teams in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our collaborative environment!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outsource UK
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of indirect procurement and category management. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past, especially around RFQ processes and supplier negotiations. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
BAE Systems values strong relationships, so prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. Think about times when your relationship management led to better outcomes or cost savings, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Prowess
Be prepared to tackle hypothetical scenarios during the interview. They might ask how you would handle a difficult negotiation or a supply chain issue. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your commercial awareness and problem-solving capabilities.
✨Highlight Process Improvements
BAE Systems is looking for someone who can identify and implement best practices. Think of specific instances where you’ve improved procurement processes or introduced efficiencies. Discuss the impact these changes had on the team or the organisation as a whole to demonstrate your proactive approach.
