At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to source and manage technical components in motorsport.
- Company: Prodrive, a leading independent motorsport company with a collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, 25 days holiday, training opportunities, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the exciting world of motorsport while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical purchasing and a degree in a relevant discipline.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Prodrive we believe there's no limit to what can be achieved when the brightest minds come together. Joining one focused and driven team, you will challenge boundaries in order to change the game for our customers. We are the world's leading independent motorsport company and the business behind some of the greatest names and achievements in motorsport over the last 40 years.
We are looking for a Technical Buyer to provide technically credible procurement capability, translating engineering intent into effective sourcing decisions and supplier execution. This role applies engineering literacy, commercial judgement and experience to deliver complex, low-volume machining and metallic components under demanding time and performance constraints. You will be able to work autonomously within delivery or programme team - engaging with a range of stakeholders from commercial, programme team, engineering and at most levels within the supplier base.
Key Responsibilities
- Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and technical requirements accurately.
- Hold credible technical discussions with engineers and suppliers.
- Apply understanding of manufacturing processes and constraints to sourcing decisions.
- Challenge assumptions constructively to balance technical risk, lead time and cost.
- Own machining and metallic components through the full lifecycle from sourcing to receipt and use.
- Anticipate supply, quality or technical risks and act early to prevent failure.
- Ensure parts arrive on time, to specification and fit for purpose.
- Maintain accurate purchasing data reflecting technical, commercial and delivery reality, including price, lead time and invoice resolution.
Who are we looking for?
Our ideal candidate will have experience in technical purchasing working with machining and metallic components within Motorsport or advanced engineering, backed by a degree in a relevant discipline. You will be confident reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications, be technically credible and trusted by engineers and suppliers, and remain calm and decisive under pressure. You will have a practical understanding of relevant manufacturing processes (e.g. machining and fabrication) and have experience using ERP or purchasing systems in a fast-paced technical environment. With a good working knowledge of should-cost to inform sourcing and negotiation decisions, you will be comfortable making judgement calls with incomplete information, and have a proactive, analytical and solutions-focused approach.
What can we offer you?
- An attractive salary which will grow in line with your ongoing development and impact.
- 25 days holiday (which increases with long service) with an opportunity to purchase up to 15 extra days.
- Training opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Onsite subsidised staff restaurant.
- Car and pension salary sacrifice schemes.
- Cyclescheme.
- Exercise classes.
- Paid time off for volunteering.
- Consultations with our Fit 4 Life expert.
- Social events throughout the year.
- Exclusive company discounts.
- Life assurance.
We are an equal opportunities employer. At Prodrive we are committed to attracting and nurturing the best talent and creating an inclusive workplace. We value individual differences and diversity amongst all staff so that everyone has the widest opportunities to maximise their potential. We aim to ensure that no job applicant is placed at a disadvantage by practices or requirements which disproportionately impact protected groups and which are not justified by the demands of the job. If you feel you are right for this role, we welcome your application. Come and make a difference.
Technical Buyer in London employer: Prodrive
Prodrive is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and teamwork drive success in the world of motorsport. With competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and a strong commitment to employee well-being, including generous holiday allowances and social events, Prodrive fosters a culture of growth and inclusivity. Located at the heart of motorsport excellence, employees can expect to be part of a passionate team that values their contributions and encourages personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Buyer in London
✨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 Prodrive.
✨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 Technical Buyer in London
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 Prodrive:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Prodrive. 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 Prodrive.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prodrive
✨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 Prodrive!
✨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 Prodrive. 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 Prodrive's culture.
