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- Tasks: Manage high-value materials sourcing and supplier relationships while driving cost savings.
- Company: Thompson Aero Seating is a leader in aviation seating solutions, committed to innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, flexible working hours, and extensive leave options.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team focused on ethical sourcing and impactful projects in the aerospace industry.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and relevant qualifications are essential.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and personal development await you!
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
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The post holder will be responsible for managing the most critical and highest value direct materials sourcing and supply relationships, and large and complex sourcing and outsourcing projects through both evaluation and execution. Aiding the design of a robust Commodity Strategy to support the business goals and providing a global category focal point for the business. Responsibilities Manage the outsourced spend for your specific category Build, maintain and manage scaled & critical strategic supplier relationships. Deliver significant and sustained cost savings for your category, on an on-going basis. Contribute to the overall Make vs Buy strategy, identifying opportunities and synergies both within the supply chain and current make portfolio. Provide strategic leadership to key business transformation and outsourcing projects and leverage strong project and change management skills to manage complex and high value outsourcing and re-sourcing projects. Drive sustainable and ethical sourcing practices across the organisation. Influencing stakeholders at the highest level within the business unit, suppliers, and customers. Conducting strategic sourcing, search, and supplier evaluations; conducting RFPs / tender / commercial negotiation processes Managing multiple supplier relationships and projects to balance supply chain competition Securing a global supply base that meets the organisation\’s cost and performance targets Drive continuous improvements for the Category / group of commodities. Negotiate and implement LTAs and subcontracts Provide insights and recommendations based on analysis, research, industry trends, benchmarking, and best practices. Reward Competitive salary Annual bonus (linked to company performance) 33 days annual leave (Increase after 5 years\’ service) 37.5 hours per week Flexi time working £5,000 employee referral bonus Health cash plan Contributory Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme Holiday Purchase Scheme – Salary Sacrifice Electric Car Scheme – Salary Sacrifice Cycle to Work Scheme Life Assurance Scheme at x4 gross salary Competitive enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay IVF & Assisted Conception Policy Women in Business Membership Wellbeing Initiatives Employee Recognition scheme Long Service Awards Local charity / sponsorship activities Dedicated employee parking Discounted Gym membership Learning and development opportunities Career progression Requirements Essential Category Supply Market knowledge gained in a procurement environment Proven track record of managing strategic sourcing processes and critical supplier relationships Experience of leading sourcing evaluation process and outsourcing 3rd level Qualification, or demonstrable equivalent Experience and knowledge of specialist manufacturing processes and related costs / efficiencies Experience of MS Office suite of applications and ERP based systems Excellent negotiation skills Demonstrable understanding of Make Vs Buy, in relation to assembly / sub assembly / components and related procurement strategic decision making Understanding of key cost drivers that ensure commercial business decisions in partnership with design Experience across a range of materials (can include metals, plastic, composites, electro-mechanicals, electrical components, or non-structures components) Desirable Knowledge and understanding of latest technologies that position the business to leverage smart, future solutions for Seating CIPS qualification We reserve the right to enhance criteria on shortlisting. Thompson Aero Seating is an Equal Opportunities employer. The closing date for applications is the 6th July 2025 at 17:00. To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Apply button below to Login/Register.
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Marketing and Sales
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Industries
Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing
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Category Buyer employer: Thompson Aero Seating Limited
Contact Detail:
Thompson Aero Seating Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement and sourcing, especially within the aviation and aerospace sectors. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to staying updated.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the industry, particularly those who work in procurement roles. Attend relevant events or join online forums to build connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the Category Buyer position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven cost savings in previous roles. Having concrete stories ready will showcase your experience and problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Thompson Aero Seating's current projects and initiatives. Understanding their business goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their needs during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Category Buyer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as managing supplier relationships and strategic sourcing processes.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and strategic sourcing. Emphasise your achievements in managing supplier relationships and any cost savings you have delivered in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background to the specific requirements of the role. Mention your understanding of Make vs Buy strategies and how your skills align with the company's goals.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a CIPS qualification or experience with specialist manufacturing processes, be sure to mention these in your application. This will demonstrate your expertise and suitability for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thompson Aero Seating Limited
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Thompson Aero Seating Limited. Understand their products, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the Category Buyer role, be ready to discuss your experience with strategic sourcing processes and supplier management. Brush up on key cost drivers and the Make vs Buy strategy to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is a crucial part of this role. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated contracts or managed supplier relationships. Highlight the outcomes and how they benefited your previous employers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Project Management
The role requires strong leadership and project management skills. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've led, focusing on your approach to managing complex sourcing and outsourcing projects, and how you drove improvements within those initiatives.
