At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement efforts, negotiate contracts, and drive cost-saving initiatives in robotics.
- Company: Join Humanoid, a pioneering tech company revolutionising robotics for a better future.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days annual leave, private healthcare, equity options, and free meals.
- Other info: Collaborate with top engineers and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to amplify human potential through innovative humanoid robots.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, degree in relevant field, and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Here at Humanoid, we believe in a future where robots amplify human potential. That’s why we’ve set out on a mission to build the world’s most capable, commercially-scalable, and safe humanoid robots. We’re bringing that mission to life with HMND‑01 Alpha - our rapidly developed humanoid platform now running in real industrial pilots - and we’re growing the team to take it even further.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Buyer for an operational procurement role focused on P2P execution, supplier communication, and tactical sourcing support across Humanoid’s direct material commodity. Supporting the Procurement Manager, you will partner with teams in London, Boston, and Vancouver in delivering continuity of supply, cost performance, and operational excellence across Mechanical, Electronics, Electromechanical, Cables & Harnessing, and Software commodities.
What You’ll Do:
- Conduct market research to identify cost‑saving opportunities and understand price trends and supply risks.
- Support sourcing initiatives, including RFx processes, negotiations, and contract execution.
- Drive cost, lead‑time, and efficiency improvements with measurable KPIs.
- Capture business requirements and translate them into clear commercial packages.
- Negotiate optimal commercial terms (pricing, payment terms, lead times, Ts & Cs).
- Conduct price analysis and cost‑breakdown validation to ensure fair and equitable pricing.
- Process requisitions and purchase orders in line with procurement policies.
- Maintain accurate PO and supplier data within SAP and associated systems.
- Resolve supplier performance issues, discrepancies and understand the escalation process.
- Communicate to internal stakeholders as appropriate.
- Minimise risk to continuity of supply by carrying out supplier risk assessments for the portfolio’s suppliers and implementing corrective actions as required.
- Support continuous improvement of procurement processes, documentation, and tools.
- Deliver KPI’s relating to cost, cash, quality, service and continuity of supply for the commodity proposals.
- Run MRP (SAP) and ensure timely availability of direct goods and services.
- Experience of implementing Supplier Relationship Management techniques/tools with suppliers (RMMs, Score Cards, Monthly Performance Reviews (MPRs), Communications Plans, Risk Management, DnB report, Sanctions list etc.).
- Support Production, Engineering, Quality, and Planning teams to meet manufacturing needs.
- Directly support the Procurement Managers in the regional area.
This role supports the Commodity teams in sourcing activities but does not own commodity strategy or supplier selection decisions.
We’re Looking For:
- 5+ years of direct procurement experience, ideally in manufacturing, robotics, technology, aero/defence or automotive.
- Proven experience working within scaling direct procurement functions.
- Degree in Business, Law, Engineering, or related field.
- CIPS (MCIPS) Level 5 or equivalent; APICS CPIM desirable.
- Strong understanding of contract law, commercial terms, and negotiation frameworks.
- Awareness of export controls (including EAR) relevant to robotics and technology.
- Proficient in Google Workspace, Slack, and database management.
- Experience with MRP/ERP systems; SAP highly desirable.
- Good analytical, numerical, and planning capabilities.
- A good understanding of the Legal Aspects associated with contracting within the Robotics & AI industry.
- Procure-2-Pay and tactical procurement experience (Essential) across the following direct commodities pillars: Mechanical Systems, Electronics & Electrical, Electromechanical Systems, Cables & Harnessing, Software & Digital Licensing (P2P support).
What We Offer:
- Meaningful time off to rest and recharge: 23 days of annual leave (accrued), 15 days of paid sick leave, and paid company holidays.
- Fully funded private healthcare for UK employees, with broad provider access, virtual and in‑person care, and strong mental health and serious illness support.
- Equity included–we believe builders should share in what they build.
- Pension scheme with a total 8% contribution (5% employee, 3% employer) on full earnings.
- Free daily breakfast, catered lunch, and snacks in‑office.
- Collaboration with top‑tier engineers, researchers, and product experts in AI and robotics.
- Freedom to influence the product and own key initiatives.
Senior Buyer UK/European employer: Thehumanoid
At Humanoid, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment where our employees can thrive. As a Senior Buyer, you will enjoy a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth and offers meaningful benefits, including fully funded private healthcare, generous leave policies, and equity sharing. Located in the vibrant city of London, you will have the opportunity to work alongside leading experts in robotics and AI, making a tangible impact on the future of technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer UK/European
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the robotics and procurement sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Humanoid and its mission. Understand their products and how your skills as a Senior Buyer can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show how you can drive cost and efficiency improvements.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves negotiating commercial terms, consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Humanoid team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer UK/European
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in manufacturing or technology, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with our mission at Humanoid.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about robotics and how your skills can help us amplify human potential. Be specific about your experience with P2P processes and supplier management.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves market research and cost analysis, make sure to mention any tools or methods you’ve used to drive cost-saving initiatives. We love numbers, so don’t shy away from sharing measurable outcomes!
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. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thehumanoid
✨Know Your Commodities
Make sure you brush up on the specific commodities you'll be dealing with, like Mechanical Systems and Electronics. Understanding the nuances of these areas will help you speak confidently about how you can drive cost and efficiency improvements.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Since negotiation is a key part of the role, prepare by reviewing common negotiation frameworks and strategies. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated terms, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to demonstrate your analytical capabilities, especially in price analysis and cost breakdown validation. Bring examples of how you've used data to make informed procurement decisions and improve supplier performance.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Humanoid's mission and how procurement plays a role in achieving it. Showing that you understand the company's goals and how your work as a Senior Buyer contributes to those goals will set you apart from other candidates.