At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement activities and manage supplier relationships for efficient material supply.
- Company: Innovative company from Oxford, revolutionising flow-control technology in global markets.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Permanent role with excellent career growth opportunities at Tungsten Park, Witney.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the manufacturing sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The business was founded in 2015 as a spin‑out from the University of Oxford and designs and manufactures revolutionary flow‑control valves. This disruptive technology is currently deployed globally in water and gas distribution networks, oil and gas processes, and other industrial applications. Pressure‑reducing valves (PRVs) represent a £5 bn sector of the global £70 bn valve and actuator market.
The Buyer will support the delivery of an efficient and commercially focused procurement function, ensuring the timely and cost‑effective supply of materials and services. Working closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers, the role will contribute to supplier performance management, operational continuity, and ongoing process improvement within the purchasing function.
Key Responsibilities- Support procurement activities to ensure continuity of supply and alignment with production requirements.
- Develop and maintain effective supplier relationships, ensuring strong communication and performance management.
- Ensure purchasing activities comply with internal policies, procedures, and quality standards.
- Monitor supplier performance, including delivery schedules, quality, and cost, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Manage purchase orders and ensure accurate and timely processing through the MRP system.
- Track and expedite orders to ensure materials are delivered in line with production schedules.
- Proactively identify and mitigate supply‑chain risks, communicating any potential disruptions to relevant stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate records of delivery schedules, stock levels, and procurement data.
- Collaborate with the Logistics, production and stock control teams to ensure efficient stock control and material flow.
- Support the resolution of supplier‑related issues including pricing, quality, and delivery discrepancies.
- Contribute to the monitoring and reporting of purchasing KPIs.
- Previous experience in a purchasing or procurement role within a manufacturing or production environment.
- Working knowledge of MRP systems and stock control processes.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to support negotiation and supplier management activities.
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills, with strong attention to detail.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships internally and externally.
- Proactive and solutions‑focused approach to problem solving.
- Good level of numeracy and IT literacy, including MS Office.
- CIPS qualification (Level 3 or above) or actively working towards CIPS certification – strongly preferred.
- Based at our Tungsten Park site, Witney.
- Permanent, full‑time role – Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week.
- 25 days’ holiday per year plus all statutory holidays (in England).
Senior Buyer in Witney employer: Oxford Flow
As a pioneering company founded from the University of Oxford, we offer an innovative work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a supportive culture that values teamwork and open communication. Located in the vibrant Tungsten Park, Witney, we provide a competitive benefits package, including 25 days of holiday, ensuring our employees enjoy a healthy work-life balance while contributing to groundbreaking technology in the flow-control sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their flow-control valves and how they impact various industries. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Buyer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage supplier relationships effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build confidence before the real deal.
✨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 Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your previous experience in purchasing or procurement, especially in manufacturing. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for us. Mention specific examples of how you've managed supplier relationships or improved procurement processes in the past.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your organisational and time-management skills. We love candidates who can juggle multiple tasks while keeping an eye on detail. Let us know how you’ve done this in your previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Flow
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the company’s products and the industry they operate in. Familiarise yourself with flow-control valves and their applications in various sectors. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous roles that highlight your procurement experience, especially in manufacturing. Discuss how you've managed supplier relationships, handled negotiations, or improved processes to demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss KPIs
Since monitoring purchasing KPIs is part of the job, be prepared to talk about how you've tracked and reported on performance metrics in the past. Bring examples of how you’ve used data to drive improvements in procurement activities.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Ask about the company's approach to supplier management or how they handle supply-chain risks. This shows you're thinking critically about the role and are eager to contribute.
