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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement of hydraulic systems for innovative automotive applications.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking automotive company focused on performance and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment while collaborating with top engineering talent.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement within the automotive sector is essential.
- Other info: Relocation package available for the right candidate.
Senior Strategic Buyer
Is this the next step in your career Find out if you are the right candidate by reading through the complete overview below.
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\’re seeking an experienced Senior Strategic Buyer to lead the procurement of hydraulic systems and components for cutting-edge automotive applications. From steering systems to brake hydraulics and suspension technologies, your expertise will be key to ensuring robust, cost-effective supply chains that support vehicle platforms globally.
You\’ll work closely with engineering, quality, and supplier development teams to deliver reliable sourcing solutions that meet the demands of vehicle performance, safety, and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute category strategies for hydraulic systems, including pumps, valves, actuators, hoses, reservoirs, fittings, and control units.
Source and manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, ensuring optimal performance in cost, quality, innovation, and delivery.
Lead commercial negotiations and secure long-term agreements to support program time lines and budgets.
Partner with engineering and product development teams to align procurement with technical specifications and launch schedules.
Evaluate market conditions, emerging technologies, and supplier capabilities to inform sourcing decisions.
Monitor and mitigate supply chain risks while identifying cost-saving opportunities and value engineering initiatives.
Drive supplier development, compliance, and continuous improvement in collaboration with quality and operations.About You
Proven experience in a strategic procurement role within the automotive industry, with specific knowledge of hydraulic systems and components.
Strong understanding of fluid power technologies and the supply base for hydraulics.
Skilled in contract negotiation, cost modelling, and supplier performance management.
Ability to read technical drawings/specs and effectively communicate with engineering stakeholders.
Analytical, commercially minded, and confident in managing complex supply chains.
Degree in Engineering, Procurement, or Business preferred.
CIPS or equivalent professional qualification is advantageous.
Why Join?
Influence the development of high-performance hydraulic systems in cutting-edge vehicles.
Work in a fast-paced, global environment with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
Competitive salary, bonus scheme, hybrid working, and career progression opportunities.
Collaborate with a cross-functional team shaping the future of engineering
Senior Strategic Buyer employer: RHL
Contact Detail:
RHL 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 hydraulic systems and components within the automotive industry. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automotive procurement sector, especially those who specialise in hydraulic systems. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past experiences in strategic procurement, particularly related to hydraulic systems. Highlight your achievements in cost savings, supplier negotiations, and any innovative solutions you've implemented.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and recent projects in the automotive sector. 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, particularly within the automotive industry. Emphasise your knowledge of hydraulic systems and any specific achievements in cost-saving or supplier management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and how your skills align with the company's needs. Mention your experience with commercial negotiations and your ability to work with engineering teams.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a degree in Engineering, Procurement, or Business, or hold a CIPS qualification, make sure these are prominently featured in your application. This will demonstrate your commitment to the field and enhance your credibility.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've used analytical skills to manage complex supply chains or evaluate market conditions. This will help illustrate your capability to contribute to the company's goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at RHL
✨Know Your Hydraulic Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hydraulic systems and components. Be prepared to discuss specific technologies, such as pumps and valves, and how they relate to automotive applications. This will show your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Demonstrate Negotiation Skills
Since the role involves leading commercial negotiations, be ready to share examples of past negotiations you've successfully managed. Highlight your strategies for securing long-term agreements and how you achieved cost savings while maintaining quality.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Mindset
Prepare to discuss how you evaluate market conditions and supplier capabilities. Bring examples of how you've used data to inform sourcing decisions or mitigate supply chain risks. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and commercial awareness.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Teams
The role requires collaboration with engineering and product development teams. Be ready to talk about your experience working in cross-functional environments and how you align procurement strategies with technical specifications and launch schedules.
