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- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies for metal materials in the automotive industry.
- Company: Join a global brand focused on innovative automotive solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, holiday, pension, and health perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a progressive team shaping the future of automotive materials.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement and a degree in engineering or materials science preferred.
- Other info: Relocation package available for the right candidate.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ 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 seeking a technically astute and commercially driven Senior Strategic Buyer to lead sourcing strategy for metal materials and cast components used across a range of automotive systems, from power train to chassis and structural assemblies. This is a key role in our clients procurement team, with a focus on securing high-quality ferrous and non-ferrous materials, precision castings, forgings, and machined parts to support their expanding vehicle programmes.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development of sourcing strategies for materials including aluminium, steel, iron, and speciality alloys used in cast and machined components.
- Manage procurement for sand, die, investment and pressure castings, along with forged and CNC machined metal parts.
- Identify, qualify, and manage suppliers across global markets, ensuring performance in quality, delivery, cost, and innovation.
- Conduct market analysis and monitor commodity trends affecting metal prices and supply chain risks.
- Negotiate complex contracts and long-term agreements, delivering cost savings and commercial stability.
- Collaborate with engineering, design, and manufacturing teams to ensure supplier capabilities align with technical and project requirements.
- Support product launches and engineering changes with robust sourcing and lead time planning.
About You
- Substantial experience in a strategic procurement role within the automotive, aerospace, or heavy engineering sectors, with a focus on metal materials and castings.
- Deep understanding of metal fabrication processes, including foundry operations, heat treatment, and machining.
- Strong commercial acumen, supplier negotiation, and contract management skills.
- Technical literacy with the ability to interpret drawings, material specs, and tolerances.
- Excellent stakeholder management and supplier development capabilities.
- Engineering or materials science degree preferred; CIPS or similar qualification is advantageous.
Why Join?
- Be at the core of sourcing critical materials for a global brand.
- Join a progressive team driving sustainable, cost-effective material strategies.
- Enjoy a competitive salary and great career development.
- Work on projects that define the next generation of excellence.
Senior Strategic Buyer - Materials employer: RHL
Contact Detail:
RHL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Strategic Buyer - Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the automotive and materials sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in metal materials and procurement strategies within the automotive industry. Being knowledgeable about current market conditions and innovations will help you stand out during discussions with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with supplier negotiation and contract management in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've achieved cost savings or improved supplier performance in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's products and their supply chain processes. Understanding their specific needs and challenges will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate how you can add value to their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Strategic Buyer - Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in strategic procurement, particularly within the automotive or aerospace sectors. Emphasise your knowledge of metal materials and casting processes, as well as any specific achievements in supplier negotiation and contract management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the automotive industry and detail how your skills align with the key responsibilities of the Senior Strategic Buyer role. Mention your experience in developing sourcing strategies and managing suppliers, and how you can contribute to the company's goals.
Showcase Technical Skills: Highlight your technical literacy by mentioning your ability to interpret engineering drawings and material specifications. If you have experience with specific metal fabrication processes, be sure to include that information to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to market analysis, commodity trends, and supplier management during the interview process. Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and commercial acumen in procurement.
How to prepare for a job interview at RHL
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Senior Strategic Buyer, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of metal materials and fabrication processes. Be prepared to discuss specific materials like aluminium and steel, and how they relate to automotive applications.
✨Prepare for Supplier Negotiation Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your negotiation skills. Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved cost savings or improved supplier performance, highlighting your strategic approach.
✨Understand Market Trends
Familiarise yourself with current market trends affecting metal prices and supply chain risks. Being able to discuss these trends will show your proactive approach and commercial acumen.
✨Highlight Collaboration Skills
This role requires collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams. Be ready to share experiences where you successfully worked with cross-functional teams to align supplier capabilities with project requirements.
