At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sourcing of materials and build strong supplier partnerships in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Thornton & Ross, a trusted partner in healthcare with a commitment to integrity and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse culture that values creativity and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare by ensuring smooth production processes.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
STADA UK Thornton & Ross is on an exciting growth journey with more than 700 employees being fully committed to our purpose of Caring for Peoples Health as a Trusted Partner. Together we are shaping the future of Thornton & Ross by living our values of Integrity, Entrepreneurship, Agility and One STADA.
Step into a key role at the heart of our Huddersfield manufacturing operation. As our Direct Buyer, you'll be the driving force behind sourcing the raw materials and packaging that keep production running smoothly. From shaping smart category operation and building strong supplier partnerships to proactively driving projects that improve supply, value, and performance, you'll play a central role in keeping the business moving forward. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to changing business needs, and know how to balance cost, quality, compliance, and continuity of supply, this is your chance to make a real impact.
How You Will Make an Impact
- Own a defined portfolio of direct goods and suppliers, using spend and market insight to spot opportunities, unlock savings, and resolve supplier performance issues.
- Play a central role in sourcing and supplier set-up for materials supporting the manufacture of pharmaceutical, OTC, consumer healthcare, and household products.
- Work cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Regulatory, and MS&T teams to support smooth operational delivery and respond effectively to business needs.
- Manage key supplier quality and non-conformance processes, ensuring issues are resolved quickly, stock is returned efficiently, and credits are secured on time.
- Drive procurement performance and compliance, supporting reporting, KPI tracking, packaging and raw material obligations, and accurate system and supplier data management.
- Contribute to continuous improvement across procurement, helping deliver strategy, support change management, and identify opportunities to reduce cost and risk.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven procurement experience within a regulated manufacturing environment, ideally in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or food.
- Confident communicator with strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, able to build credibility across teams and suppliers.
- Solid end-to-end procurement expertise, with SAP experience an advantage and a strong grasp of purchasing processes.
- Commercially astute and analytical, able to identify issues, assess options, and make sound decisions.
- Successful track record in supplier negotiation, securing favourable terms while maintaining strong working relationships.
- Highly organised and adaptable, with the ability to manage budgets, balance multiple priorities, and perform well under pressure.
How we care for you
- Competitive salary and annual bonus scheme.
- Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme offering 6% employer contribution rates.
- Hybrid working - we spend three days of your choice in the office, with the remaining days working at home.
- 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays with the potential to buy up to 5 additional days.
- On-site subsidised canteen.
- Health benefits provided through our Medicash Health Cash Plan.
- Free winter flu jab.
- Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme and KYAN Wellbeing offering free coaching and counselling services for you and your family.
- Electric Car Scheme through Octopus Energy, plus free on-site EV charging.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Enhanced Family Leave.
- Plus, many more employee benefits & celebration events.
STADA Group values and promotes its diverse culture, regardless of gender, age, social or ethnic origin, disabilities, religion, ideology, or sexual orientation. We use the strength of our uniqueness to develop creative ideas, expand our experience and increase innovative strength. Our focus is on equal opportunities, respectful cooperation, and the promotion of an inclusive working environment. We are looking forward to your application and welcome applications without a pharmaceutical background.
Direct Buyer in Huddersfield employer: STADA Thornton & Ross
At Thornton & Ross, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Huddersfield where our employees are at the heart of our mission to care for people's health. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, competitive salaries, and a range of benefits including hybrid working options and comprehensive health support, we foster a culture of integrity and collaboration that empowers our team members to thrive and grow in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Buyer in Huddersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Thornton & Ross on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Direct Buyer role. Personal connections can give you an edge!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s values and recent projects. Show us that you understand how your skills in procurement can align with their mission of caring for people's health. Tailor your answers to reflect their core values!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves supplier negotiations, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend. This will help you articulate your strategies and demonstrate your confidence during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in being part of the Thornton & Ross team. Let’s get you that Direct Buyer position!
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Buyer in Huddersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Direct Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in regulated environments like pharmaceuticals or healthcare. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you embody our values of Integrity, Entrepreneurship, Agility, and One STADA. Let us know what makes you the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements. Did you negotiate a great deal or improve supplier performance? We love numbers and results, so don’t hold back on showcasing your successes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at STADA Thornton & Ross
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in regulated environments like pharmaceuticals or healthcare. Be ready to discuss your experience with sourcing, supplier negotiations, and how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a Direct Buyer, you'll need to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal teams. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with stakeholders to resolve issues or improve processes.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in real-life situations, like handling supplier performance issues or managing multiple priorities under pressure. Think through your past experiences and be ready to share how you navigated those challenges successfully.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Mindset
Highlight your ability to analyse data and make informed decisions. Be prepared to discuss how you've used market insights to identify opportunities for cost savings or improvements in procurement performance.
