At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead purchasing strategies and manage supplier relationships in a dynamic aerospace environment.
- Company: Join Safran, a global leader in aerospace and defence, committed to innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Encouraging diverse applicants; we value skills over meeting every single requirement.
- Why this job: Be part of a team crafting excellence in aviation and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying within fast-paced manufacturing, ideally aerospace or defence.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.
Safran Seats is one of the world's leading manufacturers of aircraft seats, for both crew and passengers. 1 million Safran Seats-manufactured aircraft seats are currently in service with air fleets around the world. At Safran, excellence is a journey - and we'd love you to be a part of it. As a trusted global leader in aerospace, defence, and space, we are proud to be a company where diversity, innovation, and opportunity come together to shape a sustainable future where we can all succeed together through a shared vision.
We know that some candidates may be put off applying for jobs where they don't meet 100% of the criteria outlined in the advert, however, we encourage anybody to apply if you can demonstrate a variety of skills and experience relevant to the requirements of this role. Please let us know if you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments to the application or hiring process that may better facilitate your participation.
Your Role
As Senior Buyer, you'll take ownership of the creation & updating of the multi-Business Unit Target Purchasing Strategy. You'll be (or become) a Technical specialist for the relevant Commodity; managing and executing cross functional high complexity (typically £10M+) transfers of work.
Key responsibilities:
- Issue and monitor RFP/Q's to strategic suppliers using available engineering data
- Lead a group of designated buyers across the purchasing function
- Review and selection of suppliers based on proposals/quotations received
- Setup supplier data within the business ERP system. Using MRP data to raise necessary PO, and work with a predetermined number of suppliers to ensure that materials ordered are delivered on time in full
- Develop partnerships and relationships with suppliers
- Manage large scale purchasing projects such as industrialisation of new products
- Ensure OTIF from supply base meets the MRP requirements
- Ensure all KPI's are reported and updated in accordance with requirements
- Support Program/Business Sectors to effectively satisfy all requirements
- Organise the placement of purchase orders to fulfil the MRP requirements on both individual and team accounts.
What You'll Bring
- Significant buying experience within a fast-paced manufacturing environment (ideally aerospace, automotive, or defence)
- Proven ability to own and manage end to end RFQ/P processes
- Strategic sourcing experience, with a focus on cost, quality, and optimised delivery
- Excellent stakeholder management experience (internal and external)
- Ability to extract and present data/KPIs to make informed, data driven decisions
- Demonstrable supplier development and performance management
- Team leadership/management experience (desirable)
Senior Buyer employer: Safran UK
At Safran, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Located in Cwmbran, our team enjoys a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth and development, all while contributing to a sustainable future in the aerospace and defence sectors. Join us to be part of a global leader where your skills will be valued and your career can soar.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aerospace and defence sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings at Safran or other companies.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Safran’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your experience aligns with our mission of crafting excellence together. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic sourcing and stakeholder management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Buyer, you’ll need to showcase your ability to manage supplier relationships and lead RFQ processes. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s craft excellence together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your relevant experience in buying, especially in fast-paced environments like aerospace or defence. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any specific projects or achievements that relate to the job.
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since data-driven decisions are key in this role, make sure to highlight your ability to extract and present data effectively. We love seeing examples of how you've used data to influence purchasing decisions in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the aerospace and defence industries. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges. Being able to discuss these topics will show that you're not just interested in the role but also in the industry as a whole.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your buying experience, especially in fast-paced environments. Be ready to discuss how you've managed RFQ/P processes and any strategic sourcing initiatives you've led. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of a Senior Buyer.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder management is crucial for this role, think about how you've successfully collaborated with both internal teams and external suppliers. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your ability to build relationships and manage expectations effectively.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Be prepared to discuss how you've used data and KPIs to inform your purchasing decisions. Bring examples of how you've extracted and presented data to support your strategies. This will show that you can make informed decisions that align with the company's goals.
