At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes for materials, negotiate contracts, and optimise supplier collaboration.
- Company: Join Swisslog, a leading robotics company transforming logistics with cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, training opportunities, and a vibrant work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a global team shaping the future of intralogistics with exciting projects.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills, experience with SAP systems, and excellent communication abilities required.
- Other info: This role is initially temporary, offering a chance to grow within a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Where do people love what they do and being great at what they do? At Swisslog, that’s where! Our teams are the heart of a world-leading Robotics company that’s harnessing the power of technology to shape the future of intralogistics. The result? We’re transforming performance and efficiency for customers across the globe, giving them the vital edge in their markets.
As part of the KUKA Group, we are at the forefront of logistics automation technology. Serving some of the biggest and most exciting brands across the globe, we’re a team of 14,000 professionals and 50 nationalities.
We are currently seeking a Buyer based in Redditch initially on a temporary contract basis with hybrid working available. The role is responsible for managing procurement processes for direct and indirect materials within the organisation. This role ensures efficient purchasing requests, supplier negotiations, and contract agreements while optimizing cost performance and supplier collaboration.
Key Tasks:- Clarify departmental needs for indirect materials and services.
- Ensure Procurement processes are correctly followed and manage internal stakeholders.
- Process requests efficiently within SAP procurement systems including the creation of Purchase Orders based on departmental demands.
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and performance to ensure optimal procurement value.
- Source and negotiate supplier contracts in alignment with business needs.
- Manage third-party direct materials with smaller volume usage in projects for the UK and EMEA region.
- Link appropriate parts to a SAP Ariba catalogue enabling authorized personnel to make direct orders under defined guidelines.
- Engage with suppliers providing materials and services (e.g., marketing, office supplies, facility management services).
- Maintain close alignment with procurement peers and ensure co-ordination across regions for a unified purchasing approach.
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
- Experience with SAP procurement systems or similar ERP systems.
- Knowledge of direct and indirect material purchasing.
- Ability to manage supplier relationships and evaluate cost-performance ratios.
- Strong organizational and analytical abilities.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Swisslog is part of a global organisation that strives to provide opportunities, a healthy work-life balance, and a wide range of social activities. Just some of the benefits our teams enjoy include:
- A great working environment
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Working with advanced technologies
- Future-oriented projects with leading brands
- Hands-on training & skills development
Buyer employer: Swisslog
Contact Detail:
Swisslog Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with SAP procurement systems, as this role specifically mentions experience with SAP. Consider taking an online course or tutorial to boost your confidence and understanding of the system.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your negotiation skills! Since the role involves negotiating pricing and contracts, practice your negotiation techniques through role-playing scenarios or workshops to demonstrate your capability during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Swisslog and its position within the KUKA Group. Understanding their business model and recent projects can help you tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in the company during any interactions.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in logistics or automation. Engaging with industry peers can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals that could strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Buyer at Swisslog. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, supplier negotiations, and the use of SAP systems as mentioned in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement, negotiation, and contract management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in these areas, particularly any experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background to the key tasks outlined in the job description. Emphasise your strong organisational and analytical abilities, and how they will benefit Swisslog in managing procurement processes.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves managing supplier relationships and contracts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swisslog
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Swisslog and its role in the robotics and logistics industry. Understanding their mission, values, and recent projects will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Given the importance of negotiation in the Buyer role, be ready to discuss your past experiences with supplier negotiations. Prepare examples that highlight your skills in achieving optimal procurement value and managing supplier relationships.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP Systems
Since experience with SAP procurement systems is crucial, brush up on your knowledge of SAP or similar ERP systems. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in previous roles to manage procurement processes effectively.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
The role requires strong organisational and analytical abilities. Be ready to provide examples of how you've evaluated cost-performance ratios or improved procurement processes in your past positions, demonstrating your analytical mindset.