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- Tasks: Lead procurement for automotive electrical components and manage supplier partnerships.
- Company: Join a global leader in automotive innovation and advanced vehicle systems.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, holiday, pension, health insurance, and relocation package.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team driving innovation in the automotive industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement within automotive; degree in Engineering or Supply Chain preferred.
- Other info: CIPS qualification is a plus; work with cutting-edge technology and global teams.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Staffordshire
Industry: Automotive
Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Competitive £45-55k dependent on experience
Benefits: Holiday, Pension, Dental, Health, Life Insurance
Other: Relocation package provided
About the Role
We are looking for a highly skilled and commercially astute Senior Strategic Buyer to lead procurement activities for automotive electrical components. You’ll play a critical role in supporting the development and production of advanced vehicle systems, from EV platforms to intelligent control modules. As part of a forward-thinking procurement team, you’ll build and manage strategic supplier partnerships, lead commercial negotiations, and ensure a reliable, cost-effective, and innovative supply chain for key electrical technologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies for electrical components, including wiring harnesses, connectors, sensors, ECUs, relays, and power distribution modules.
- Manage supplier selection, qualification, and performance monitoring to ensure quality, cost, and delivery targets are met.
- Negotiate contracts and long-term agreements to secure competitive pricing and commercial terms.
- Work closely with R&D, engineering, quality, and production teams to align sourcing with technical specifications and program milestones.
- Monitor market trends, technology shifts (e.g., electrification, ADAS), and supply risks to inform strategic decisions.
- Support new product introductions and model launches by ensuring timely sourcing and component availability.
- Identify cost-reduction opportunities and drive continuous improvement with suppliers.
About You
- Proven experience in strategic procurement or supply chain roles within the automotive industry, with a strong focus on electrical or electronic components.
- Deep knowledge of supplier markets for vehicle electronics and electrification systems.
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills, with a results-oriented approach.
- Able to read technical drawings/specs and collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering teams.
- Excellent communication, project management, and analytical abilities.
- Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Business preferred.
- CIPS qualification is a plus.
Why Join?
- Be at the forefront of innovation in automotive electrical systems.
- Join a collaborative, high-performing procurement team with global impact.
- Enjoy a competitive salary and great development opportunities.
- Work with a global company with world-class procurement teams.
Senior Strategic Buyer employer: RHL Recruitment
Contact Detail:
RHL Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Strategic Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in automotive electrical components, especially around electrification and ADAS. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automotive procurement field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your negotiation successes and supplier management experiences. Being able to articulate these stories clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter’s values and recent projects. Tailoring your conversation to align with our mission and demonstrating how your skills can contribute to our goals will make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Strategic Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in strategic procurement, especially within the automotive industry. Emphasise your skills in negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Showcase your understanding of electrical components and your ability to develop sourcing strategies, while also expressing your enthusiasm for the role.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of past achievements related to cost reduction, supplier performance improvement, or successful negotiations. Quantify your results where possible to demonstrate your impact.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Senior Strategic Buyer.
How to prepare for a job interview at RHL Recruitment
✨Research the Company and Industry
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research the company and its position within the automotive industry. Understand their products, recent developments, and competitors. This knowledge will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the Senior Strategic Buyer role, be ready to discuss your experience with electrical components and procurement strategies. Brush up on relevant terminology and be prepared to explain how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and negotiations in the past.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is a key part of this role, so be prepared to provide examples of successful negotiations you've conducted. Highlight your approach, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This will showcase your results-oriented mindset and ability to secure competitive terms.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
The role requires collaboration with various teams such as R&D and engineering. Be ready to discuss how you've worked with cross-functional teams in previous roles. Share specific examples that illustrate your communication skills and ability to align sourcing with technical specifications.
