Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support purchasing objectives and improve procurement efficiency at Sheffield Forgemasters.
- Company: Join a leading steel production company with a strong reputation and exciting growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, flexible hours, and access to health and wellness programmes.
- Why this job: Be part of a modernisation journey that impacts UK defence programmes and fosters innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong Excel skills, and excellent communication abilities are essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract for maternity cover, based in Sheffield.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Sheffield Forgemasters is an iconic steel production and engineering company. A global leader in the designing, manufacturing and delivering of world-class steel forgings and castings. It is a great time to join Forgemasters, as the business goes through an ongoing period of growth and modernisation after being acquired by the UK Ministry of Defence in 2021. The acquisition has secured our role as a critical supplier to the next generation of UK defence programmes. As part of this programme of work, our plant and equipment will be modernised over the next 10 years, creating new opportunities for the business and our colleagues.
Based at our 64-acre site, sitting in the heart of Sheffield, we are looking for an Assistant Buyer for a 12 month fixed term contract, for maternity cover. This role will involve supporting the purchasing function in meeting the company's purchasing objectives, delivering value for money, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Procurement department.
Role Responsibilities
- Analysis of procurement spend.
- Assist with benchmarking exercises and scope RFQs in response to spend analysis.
- Assist with supplier negotiations and agreeing terms and conditions.
- Assist with day to day Contractor requirements.
- Work with the Procurement Team and the wider business to promote new opportunities, innovation and continuous improvement.
About You
The following relevant skills, knowledge and experience are required:
- Experience in a purchasing / procurement role.
- Proficient working with MS Office, particularly Excel.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent organisation skills, ability to meet deadlines and a high attention to accuracy and detail.
- Organised, with the ability to prioritise workload.
Days/Hours of Work
37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday, with flexible start and finish time between 06:15 - 09:30 and 14:30 - 18:00.
Reasons to work at Sheffield Forgemasters
- We are a long-established local employer, with a strong reputation in the region.
- Over £600m large-scale and long-term investment programme in state-of-the-art new facilities and modernisation on site.
- 33 days annual leave (includes public holidays).
- Easily accessible location with free onsite parking.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Life Assurance Scheme as part of the pension scheme programme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- On site Occupational Health provision providing Health Screening and advice on well-being.
- Discounted Westfield Health Plan Scheme.
- Occupational Sick Pay Scheme.
- You at Work – Access to online discounts portal.
- A bronze accredited participant in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, supporting ex-military and reservists in employment.
For additional information or if you would like to discuss the role, please email Recruitment@sfel.com. Alternatively, if this sounds like the role for you, please review the full job description attached and apply now!
Assistant Buyer employer: Sheffield Forgemasters International Limited
Contact Detail:
Sheffield Forgemasters International Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the steel production and engineering industry, particularly focusing on procurement processes. Understanding the specific challenges and trends in this sector will help you engage more effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in manufacturing or engineering sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your Excel skills, as proficiency in this software is crucial for the role. Consider taking a short course or watching tutorials to enhance your data analysis capabilities, which will be beneficial during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in procurement, focusing on how you've contributed to cost savings or efficiency improvements. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your analytical and negotiation skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and required skills for the Assistant Buyer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in purchasing or procurement roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your analytical skills and proficiency with MS Office, particularly Excel.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for joining Sheffield Forgemasters. Mention their recent growth and modernisation efforts to show you are informed and genuinely interested.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that all information is accurate and that your documents are well-organised and easy to read.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheffield Forgemasters International Limited
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Sheffield Forgemasters. Understand their history, recent developments, and their role in the UK defence programmes. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its objectives.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As an Assistant Buyer, strong numerical and analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully analysed procurement spend or improved efficiency in a purchasing role.
✨Prepare for Supplier Negotiation Scenarios
Since the role involves assisting with supplier negotiations, think of scenarios where you've had to negotiate terms and conditions. Be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes, showcasing your communication and negotiation skills.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
The job requires excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload. Prepare to discuss how you manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively, perhaps by sharing a specific instance where your organisation made a significant difference.
