At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes for materials and negotiate supplier contracts.
- Company: Join Swisslog, a leading Robotics company transforming logistics with technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and a healthy work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects with top brands and develop your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience with SAP or similar ERP systems required.
- Other info: This role is initially temporary, offering a chance to grow within a global team.
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.
Your Background:
- 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.
We Offer:
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 is a key requirement for the Buyer role. Consider taking online courses or tutorials to enhance your skills and demonstrate your commitment to mastering the tools used in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your negotiation skills by practising with friends or colleagues. Role-playing different scenarios can help you feel more confident when it comes to negotiating pricing and terms with suppliers during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Swisslog and its position within the KUKA Group to understand their market and competitors. This knowledge will not only help you tailor your responses during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the company and its goals.
✨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 valuable 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: Highlight your relevant experience in procurement, negotiation, and contract management. Make sure to include any specific experience with SAP or similar ERP systems, as well as your ability to manage supplier relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to showcase your passion for procurement and how your skills align with Swisslog's needs. Mention your strong organisational and analytical abilities, and provide examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships in the past.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves managing procurement processes.
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 automation industry. Understanding their mission, values, and recent projects will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Given that strong negotiation skills are crucial for the Buyer role, be ready to discuss your past experiences with supplier negotiations. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to achieve optimal procurement value and manage supplier relationships effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP Systems
Since experience with SAP procurement systems is a key requirement, 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.
✨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 managed procurement processes efficiently in the past. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the position.