At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for high-value automotive programmes and manage supplier performance.
- Company: Dynamic automotive company focused on engineering excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible benefits, ongoing training, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment with significant influence on programme success.
- Qualifications: Experience in automotive purchasing and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Our Automotive client is looking for a Senior Programme Buyer to take the lead on procurement across high-value, technically complex programmes. This is a hands-on role where you'll influence sourcing decisions, manage supplier performance, and ensure critical components are delivered in line with demanding project timelines.
You'll be joining a fast-moving, engineering-led environment where procurement plays a central role in programme success, not just a support function.
What You'll Be Doing
- Take ownership of procurement from concept through to delivery, ensuring supply chain activity keeps pace with programme demands.
- Sourcing & Strategy
- Shape sourcing plans that align with programme timing, cost targets, and technical requirements.
- Select and appoint suppliers, balancing capability, risk, and long-term value.
- Work closely with engineering and programme teams to support design and development phases.
- Supplier Performance & Delivery
- Drive supplier accountability for quality, cost, and on-time delivery.
- Ensure materials, components, and tooling are in place for builds, trials, and production ramp-up.
- Act quickly to resolve supply issues and keep programmes on track.
- Commercial Ownership
- Lead negotiations on pricing, tooling, and contractual terms.
- Manage cost changes and maintain visibility of programme spend.
- Monitor supplier commitments and ensure alignment with business expectations.
- Risk & Control
- Identify potential supply chain risks early and put mitigation plans in place.
- Maintain accurate data across systems to support reporting and decision-making.
- Oversee procurement activity through to programme completion.
What We're Looking For
This role suits someone who is comfortable operating at pace and taking real ownership. You'll likely have:
- Experience in automotive purchasing within a Tier-1, OEM, or similar environment.
- A track record of supporting or leading procurement across programme lifecycles.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Confidence working cross-functionally with technical and non-technical teams.
- A structured approach to managing cost, timing, and risk.
Why Join?
- Competitive salary with room to grow.
- Flexible benefits, including holiday purchase options.
- Ongoing development and training opportunities.
- Pension and salary sacrifice schemes.
- Wellbeing initiatives and employee support programmes.
- Onsite facilities and social activities.
- A collaborative environment where procurement has real influence.
Senior Program Buyer in Royal Leamington Spa employer: W Talent
Join a dynamic automotive environment where your role as a Senior Programme Buyer will be pivotal in shaping procurement strategies that drive programme success. With a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a strong focus on employee development, you'll thrive in a collaborative culture that values your contributions and supports your growth. Enjoy the unique advantage of working in a fast-paced setting where procurement is not just a function but a key player in delivering high-value projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Program Buyer in Royal Leamington Spa
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the automotive industry and let them know you're on the lookout for a Senior Programme Buyer role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Since this role involves leading negotiations on pricing and contracts, practice articulating your strategies and past successes. We want you to shine when it comes to showcasing your expertise!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and match your experience in automotive purchasing. Tailor your approach to each company to show them why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay proactive after applying! Follow up with a friendly email to express your enthusiasm for the role. This shows initiative and keeps you on their radar. Remember, we’re all about making connections and standing out in the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Program Buyer in Royal Leamington Spa
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Programme Buyer role. Highlight your automotive purchasing experience and any relevant achievements to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement in the automotive sector and how your background makes you the perfect candidate for this hands-on role.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills:Since negotiation is key in this role, be sure to include examples of successful negotiations you've led. We want to see how you've driven supplier accountability and managed costs effectively.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at W Talent
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your automotive purchasing knowledge, especially in a Tier-1 or OEM context. Understand the key challenges and trends in the industry, as well as the specific requirements of the role. This will show that you're not just interested in the position, but that you’re genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you’ve successfully influenced outcomes. Be ready to discuss how you balanced cost, quality, and supplier relationships. This is crucial for a Senior Programme Buyer, so demonstrating your prowess here can really set you apart.
✨Cross-Functional Collaboration
Think about times when you've worked with both technical and non-technical teams. Be prepared to share how you navigated those interactions and contributed to successful project outcomes. Highlighting your ability to bridge gaps between different departments will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Risk Management Mindset
Familiarise yourself with common supply chain risks and think of strategies you’ve implemented to mitigate them in the past. Discussing your proactive approach to risk management will demonstrate your readiness to take ownership and ensure programme success.
