At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing activities and develop sourcing strategies to enhance supply chain performance.
- Company: Join Wabtec, a global leader in rail solutions with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team that values inclusion and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of transportation while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement within engineering is preferred; strong communication skills are essential.
We are seeking a Buyer to join our team at the LH Group (a Division of Wabtec UK Ltd) based in Burton on Trent. We support our customers through maintenance and operation optimisation with customised solutions for spare parts, repair, and overhaul activities on existing trains.
Role: Senior Buyer
Location: Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, (DE13 8EN)
Hours: Monday to Thursday 08:00 to 16:30 and Friday 08:00 to 13:00, 37 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
How will you make a difference? As a Senior Buyer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the performance and resilience of the supply chain, ensuring materials and services are delivered safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Working closely with Engineering, Quality, Projects, and Operations teams, you will influence sourcing decisions, develop strategic supplier partnerships, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that directly impact business performance.
What will your typical day look like?
- Manage purchasing activities including MRP demand, requisitions, purchase orders, and invoice queries.
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies to support cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through regular reviews and performance management.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities and ensure supplier readiness and FAI compliance.
- Drive cost reduction, value engineering, and working capital improvement initiatives.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Planning, and Project teams to deliver supply chain solutions.
- Conduct supplier sourcing, benchmarking, and market testing to support business growth.
- Negotiate supplier agreements, contracts, and commercial terms.
- Monitor and report on supplier performance, spending, savings, and inventory metrics.
- Support commercial bids and provide procurement expertise for new business opportunities.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across procurement processes and systems.
- Coach and develop team members while promoting best practices and compliance.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procurement procedures, and relevant legislation.
- Support wider business and supply chain activities as required.
What do we want to know about you?
- Previous experience in buying/purchasing/procurement within an engineering/manufacturing environment is desirable.
- CIPS or IOSCM Qualifications are desirable.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work to strict deadlines.
- Highly driven and self-motivated.
- Good level of IT skills (Excel, Outlook, Teams, Oracle (preferred), PowerPoint).
- Legal authorisation to work in the UK is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.
Additional Information
At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job - it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we’re Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other. If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We’re lifelong learners, obsessed with better.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Senior Buyer in Burton upon Trent employer: Wabtec Corporation
Wabtec UK in Burton upon Trent is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the rail industry. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and a commitment to safety and performance excellence. Joining our Bogies & Wheelsets team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to enhancing rail solutions while enjoying the vibrant community and resources available in Burton upon Trent.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in Burton upon Trent
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Wabtec Corporation.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in Burton upon Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Wabtec Corporation:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Wabtec Corporation. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Wabtec Corporation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wabtec Corporation
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Wabtec Corporation!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Wabtec Corporation. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Wabtec Corporation's culture.
