At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supply chain operations, negotiate with suppliers, and ensure material availability.
- Company: Join SWEGON, a leader in manufacturing with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Office-based role in Whitstable with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that drives efficiency and innovation in supply chain management.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in purchasing, strong ERP/MRP knowledge, and excellent organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
The Senior Buyer will efficiently manage the Supply Chain function, ensuring accuracy and operational efficiency within the Supply Chain team. The role involves negotiating competitive pricing and service levels with all suppliers, maintaining material availability for a seamless manufacturing process, without holding excessive inventory. The position utilises two ERP systems (Avante and M3) and works closely with other departments to maintain a high level of customer service. This role is fully office based, five days per week at our site in Whitstable, requires a full UK driving licence and residence within close proximity to the site.
Key Responsibilities
- Create and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers to support operational needs.
- Set up supplier agreements – negotiate pricing and lead times as required.
- Maintain and update pricing in all ERP systems and support continuous improvement.
- Manage the MRP system, ensuring all customer demands are met.
- Work closely with the CS Team to maintain and provide a high level of communication with customers.
- Set and maintain supply chain KPIs and supply reports when required.
- Work closely with Stores to ensure inventory is kept at a suitable level for business needs.
- Work closely with engineering on new product development projects.
- Maintain pricing agreements with current suppliers.
- Manage and lead supply chain projects as they arise.
- Identify high risk bought‑in parts and seek potential new suppliers.
- Coordinate collation of yearly spend data for reporting purposes.
- Support the Supply Chain and Logistics Manager in identifying and implementing continuous improvement.
Experience & Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years previous experience in a Purchasing role within a Manufacturing/Construction organisation.
- Comprehensive use and understanding of MRP/ERP systems.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Strong computer literacy – Microsoft Office, Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Equal Opportunities Statement
We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, in line with the Equality Act 2010. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is fair, transparent, and accessible to all. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Senior Buyer at SWEGON in Whitstable employer: SWEGON
At SWEGON, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every employee is valued. As a Senior Buyer based in Whitstable, you will benefit from a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and development, alongside competitive remuneration and comprehensive benefits. Our commitment to continuous improvement and strong supplier relationships ensures that you will play a vital role in our operational success while enjoying the advantages of working in a vibrant coastal location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer at SWEGON in Whitstable
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like SWEGON.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer at SWEGON in Whitstable
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to SWEGON:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to SWEGON. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like SWEGON.
How to prepare for a job interview at SWEGON
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at SWEGON!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at SWEGON. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into SWEGON's culture.
