At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes and build strong supplier relationships for efficient sourcing.
- Company: Join Plessey, a dynamic company in Plymouth with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private medical insurance, gym access, and 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact in supply chain management while developing your negotiation and analytical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or supply chain, with strong IT and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Buyer
Department
Procurement
Employment Type
Full Time
Location
- Plymouth
- Description
Plessey has an exciting opportunity for a Buyer to join our Supply Chain Team.
Reporting directly to the Supply Chain Manager, you will focus on indirect procurement and the processing of Purchase Requisitions (PRs), ensuring that goods and services are sourced efficiently, accurately, and in line with company procedures.
You will support purchasing activity for a wide range of site and operational requirements, working closely with internal stakeholders to clarify needs, obtain quotations, challenge pricing to secure best value, and raise accurate purchase orders in SAP.
A key part of the role is proactively expediting orders and developing strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable delivery performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage purchase requisitions and raise accurate purchase orders in SAP.
- Source indirect goods and services, negotiating pricing and terms to achieve best value.
- Expedite orders and resolve supply, delivery, or quality issues.
- Build effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders across the site.
- Maintain accurate procurement and supplier data to support supply chain performance.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvement, and supplier optimisation.
- Ensure all procurement activity complies with internal procedures and financial controls.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain, ideally within indirect categories.
- Strong understanding of purchasing processes, PR review, and PO creation.
- Confident in challenging prices and negotiating improved terms.
- Strong IT skills; SAP experience is highly advantageous.
- Excellent accuracy and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships.
- Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities.
- Analytical and able to compare quotes or identify inconsistencies.
- Working towards or holding CIPS or a related qualification.
Benefits
- Pension scheme
- Private medical & dental insurance
- 28 days’ holiday + bank holidays
- Free onsite meals
- Onsite gym
- Share scheme
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Buyer in Plymouth employer: Plessey
Plessey is an exceptional employer located in Plymouth, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive in their careers. With a strong focus on employee growth, Plessey provides comprehensive benefits including private medical and dental insurance, a generous holiday allowance, and opportunities for professional development through CIPS qualifications. The collaborative culture fosters strong relationships with both suppliers and internal teams, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in the company's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Plymouth
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Plessey.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Plessey:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Plessey. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Plessey.
How to prepare for a job interview at Plessey
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Plessey!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Plessey. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Plessey's culture.