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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and negotiate for materials, ensuring supply and cost efficiency.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturing firm with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborate across teams and enhance your career in a supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make an impact by managing supplier relationships and driving cost savings.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The Senior Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing specific commodity categories to ensure consistent supply, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance. This role ensures materials and components are available to meet production schedules while driving cost savings, quality improvements, and strong supplier relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Procurement & Sourcing
- Manage the end‑to‑end procurement process for assigned commodities.
- Source new suppliers and evaluate alternative materials or components to reduce costs and enhance supply continuity.
- Conduct market research to understand price trends, supply risks, and global commodity movements.
- Review RFQs, negotiate pricing, and secure best‑value agreements aligned with organisational goals.
- Supplier Management
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers to ensure dependable supply.
- Monitor supplier performance in terms of cost, quality, delivery, and compliance.
- Conduct supplier reviews, audits, and performance improvement activities.
- Resolve supply issues and escalate risks to the business where required.
- Cost & Contract Management
- Support cost‑saving and value engineering initiatives while ensuring material availability.
- Prepare and present cost analysis, forecasts, and supplier proposals.
- Negotiate commercial terms, long‑term agreements, and service-level expectations.
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Planning teams to support manufacturing requirements.
- Assist in new product development projects by sourcing suitable materials and components.
- Ensure procurement decisions support overall production efficiency and company strategic goals.
- Data, Systems & Compliance
- Maintain accurate procurement data within ERP/MRP systems.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and ethical procurement practices.
- Track commodity KPIs and generate reports as required.
Skills & Experience Required
- Essential
- Proven experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain roles—preferably within manufacturing or engineering environments.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Ability to analyse data, interpret market trends, and make cost‑effective decisions.
- Proficient with ERP/MRP/SAP systems and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Desirable
- CIPS qualification (or studying towards it).
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement principles.
- Experience managing global suppliers or complex commodity categories.
Key Competencies
- Commercial awareness
- Decision‑making
- Problem‑solving
- Relationship building
- Attention to detail
- Adaptability and resilience
Senior Buyer in Kent employer: Terry Parris Associates Ltd
Contact Detail:
Terry Parris Associates Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. Understand their procurement processes and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your negotiation skills during interviews! Bring examples of past successes where you’ve saved costs or improved supplier relationships. This is your chance to demonstrate your value as a Senior Buyer.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your procurement and supplier management experience, especially if you've worked with SAP or in manufacturing environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Senior Buyer role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or driven cost savings in previous roles.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since negotiation is key in this role, include examples of successful negotiations you've led. This could be about securing better pricing or improving supplier performance—make it clear how you added value!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Terry Parris Associates Ltd
✨Know Your Commodities
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific commodity categories relevant to the role. Understand current market trends, price fluctuations, and potential supply risks. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and well-prepared.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you secured cost savings or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your strong negotiation skills, which are essential for a Senior Buyer.
✨Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration
Think of instances where you've worked with other departments like Production or Engineering. Share how you supported their needs through effective procurement strategies. This shows that you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving company goals.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ERP/MRP Systems
Since proficiency in SAP and other systems is crucial, brush up on your knowledge of these tools. Be prepared to discuss how you've used them in previous roles to manage procurement data and ensure compliance. This will highlight your technical skills and readiness for the role.