At a Glance
- Tasks: Source spare parts for manufacturing and negotiate with suppliers in a dynamic international environment.
- Company: Join a global raw materials trader with a diverse engineering team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and training provided on SAP Business One.
- Why this job: Gain valuable insights into global procurement while working on exciting engineering projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying within engineering or manufacturing and strong numerical skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33000 £ per year.
The Skills You'll Need: Procurement, Manufacturing, SAP, Order Processing, Engineering
Your New Salary: £30-33k
Location: Central London, hybrid four days in office, one at home (Five days in the office during probation)
Job status: Permanent
Start date: ASAP
Working hours: Monday to Friday 9 - 5 pm
Who You'll Be Working for: Global raw materials trader.
What You'll be Doing Each Day:
- The Assistant Buyer role sits within the Engineering Department of a diversified international group operating across more than seven countries worldwide.
- Based at the London office, the role forms part of an international engineering procurement team responsible for sourcing spare parts and assemblies for manufacturing industries, primarily serving the Middle East market.
- The role offers exposure to sourcing products from Europe and the Far East, providing valuable insight into international supply chains and global procurement practices.
- There is clear scope for career progression within the department.
- Understanding internal stakeholder requirements and preparing Requests for Quotation (RFQs) accurately and efficiently.
- Receiving, analysing, comparing, and evaluating supplier quotations.
- Prepare cost comparison sheets and calculate margins.
- Preparing customer and internal offers using the company’s bespoke SAP system.
- Negotiating pricing, lead times, and commercial terms with vendors.
- Raising and processing purchase orders.
- Preparing procurement and management reports.
- Selection and development of vendors to best meet the specifications, quality and logistical requirements.
- Ensuring accurate and timely data entry within the in-house SAP system.
- Typing, proof reading and production of correspondence and documents using in-house style compliant templates.
- Monitoring and responding to telephone and email enquiries on behalf of the engineering team.
- Updating product brochures, catalogues, and marketing materials as required.
- Database management.
The Skills You'll Need to Succeed:
- Buying experience in engineering or manufacturing.
- Understanding engineering drawings.
- Strong commercial awareness and understanding of procurement principles.
- Familiarity with INCO terms & Forex / Exchange rates as this is an international trading environment.
- Ability to evaluate suppliers and negotiate favourable terms of business.
- Hands on ability to manage and enter enquiries, quotations and contracts onto computer systems.
- Strong numerical skills and high level of computer literacy.
- Good communication skills both verbal and written.
- Demonstrated experience with ERP systems is highly desirable, particularly SAP Business One.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of European languages would be an added advantage.
- High attention to detail, with a methodical and organised approach to work.
- A proactive, flexible, and “can-do” attitude.
- Have a flexible approach to working hours when necessary.
- Have the ability to prioritise work effectively.
- Be a confident user of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
- Have ability and enthusiasm for learning new systems and IT packages. Training will be given on SAP Business One.
Assistant Buyer - Engineering/Manufacturing in London employer: People First
As a global raw materials trader based in Central London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while providing valuable exposure to international procurement practices within the engineering sector. With clear pathways for career progression and a commitment to diversity, we offer a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer - Engineering/Manufacturing in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect 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 procurement processes. Be ready to discuss how your skills in SAP and order processing can benefit their engineering team. Show them you mean business!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since you'll be dealing with vendors, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to negotiate terms effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer - Engineering/Manufacturing in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your procurement and engineering experience. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or roles you've had!
Craft a Catchy Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Assistant Buyer role. We love seeing enthusiasm and a bit of personality, so let us know what excites you about this opportunity.
Be Precise with Details:When filling out your application, pay attention to the details. Ensure all your information is accurate and formatted correctly. We appreciate a methodical approach, especially when it comes to data entry and documentation!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at People First
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Brush up on your procurement principles and be ready to discuss how they apply to the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Understanding INCO terms and Forex rates will give you an edge, especially since this role involves international trading.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP
Since the company uses SAP Business One, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with its functionalities. If you have experience with ERP systems, be prepared to share specific examples of how you've used them in past roles.
✨Prepare for Supplier Negotiations
Think about past experiences where you negotiated terms with suppliers. Be ready to discuss your approach to evaluating supplier quotations and how you ensure favourable terms while maintaining quality.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This role requires strong verbal and written communication skills. Prepare to demonstrate how you’ve effectively communicated with internal stakeholders and vendors in previous positions, perhaps through examples of RFQs or procurement reports you've prepared.
