At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sourcing of materials and build strong supplier partnerships in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join STADA UK Thornton & Ross, a trusted partner in healthcare with a commitment to integrity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while supporting people's health and wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience, strong communication skills, and analytical mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ 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
At Thornton & Ross our purpose Caring for peoples health as a trusted partner motivates us every day. And what would be a better place than starting with our own employees. Which is why we give much in return:
- 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 Leeds employer: STADA Thornton & Ross
STADA Thornton & Ross is an exceptional employer located in Reading, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development alongside competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and comprehensive health benefits, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Buyer in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission of caring for people's health. Tailor your answers to reflect how you align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Buyer in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Direct Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in regulated environments like pharmaceuticals or healthcare, to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you embody our values of Integrity, Entrepreneurship, Agility, and One STADA. This is your chance to show us your personality and fit for our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Whether it’s cost savings or successful supplier negotiations, we want to see how you’ve made a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
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 similar challenges.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Mindset
Highlight your ability to analyse data and market insights to make informed decisions. Be prepared to discuss how you've identified opportunities for cost savings or improved supplier performance in your previous roles.
