At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and procure goods to support operational objectives and business growth.
- Company: Join Wabtec, a global leader in rail solutions with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with competitive salary and supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the transportation industry while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing within engineering; CIPS or IOSCM qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
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: 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 Buyer, you will be responsible for sourcing and procuring goods and services that support Wabtec UK's operational and business objectives. Working within the Supply Chain team, you will develop supplier and commodity strategies that deliver value, reduce risk, and support business growth.
What will your typical day look like?
- Manage purchasing activities, including requisitions, MRP signals, and invoice queries.
- Collaborate with stakeholders and engineers to build supply chain solutions.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and ensure FAI compliance.
- Develop and negotiate part/commodity strategies.
- Lead cost-saving and working capital initiatives.
- Maintain supplier relationships through reviews and performance tracking.
- Conduct market testing and drive supplier development.
- Understand cross-functional processes and support commercial bids.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation.
- Provide cross-unit support and perform additional duties as needed.
What do we want to know about you?
- Previous experience in purchasing/procurement within an engineering/manufacturing environment.
- 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.
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.
Buyer in Burton upon Trent employer: Wabtec
Wabtec in Lincoln is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion. Employees benefit from comprehensive training programs and opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to meaningful advancements in the manufacturing sector. Join us to be part of a team that values safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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.
✨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 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:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Wabtec. 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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wabtec
✨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!
✨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. 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's culture.
