At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and drive procurement processes in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Fast-scaling UK clean technology manufacturing business focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and potential for contract extension or permanent role.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and innovative industry.
- Why this job: Join a high-growth team and make a real impact on sustainable manufacturing.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement/supply chain with strong negotiation and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are supporting a fast-scaling UK-based clean technology manufacturing business as it moves from low-volume production into a high-growth, industrialised manufacturing phase. They are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager / Procurement Consultant to take ownership of a key commodity area and help drive supplier performance, cost optimisation, and scalable procurement processes. This is a hands-on, commercially focused role suited to someone who thrives in complex, fast-moving environments where supply chain decisions directly impact product delivery and business growth.
Role Overview
You will take end-to-end ownership of a defined commodity area, managing supplier relationships, procurement activity, and commercial performance. The role requires strong negotiation capability, analytical thinking, and the ability to operate autonomously within a scaling organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage purchase activity, inventory tracking, and demand-driven procurement adjustments
- Own strategic supplier relationships and lead regular performance reviews
- Drive commercial negotiations including pricing, contracts, and long-term value agreements
- Act as the primary commercial interface between suppliers, engineering, and quality teams
- Lead full sourcing cycles from RFQ/RFI through to contract award
- Identify and onboard new suppliers focused on cost, quality, sustainability, and lead time
- Deliver cost reduction initiatives and support ongoing product cost-down activity
- Analyse supplier and cost data to generate insights and improve decision-making
- Develop and improve procurement processes to support scaling operations
- Support wider business needs across operations when required
Skills & Experience Required
- 5+ years’ experience in procurement / supply chain within manufacturing or similar environments
- Strong commercial negotiation and supplier management experience
- Proven ability to analyse quotations and challenge supplier pricing structures
- Good understanding of manufacturing cost drivers
- Experience working with ERP systems
- Strong analytical, organisational, and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
- Experience with electrical components or harness-related commodities is highly beneficial
- Willingness to travel to suppliers when required
Contract Details
- Outside IR35 (QDOS)
- UK-based (hybrid / site travel as required)
- Hybrid working
- Immediate start preferred
This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping procurement and supply chain capability during a critical scale-up phase of a high-growth engineering business. There are scopes for extensions and even a permanent transition for the right person.
Locations
Engineer - Part Time in Epsom, Surrey employer: X4 Technology
Join a dynamic and innovative clean technology manufacturing business that prioritises employee growth and development in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. With a strong focus on sustainability and cost optimisation, this role offers the chance to make a tangible impact while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for career progression. Be part of a team that values your expertise and encourages you to thrive as the company scales its operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineer - Part Time in Epsom, Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in terms of cost optimisation and supplier management. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role requires strong commercial negotiation capabilities, consider role-playing scenarios with friends or mentors. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be what you’re looking for. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineer - Part Time in Epsom, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Supply Chain Engineer. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement and supplier management, and don’t forget to showcase your analytical skills and negotiation prowess!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this fast-paced environment. Mention specific examples of how you've driven cost optimisation or improved procurement processes in the past.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use bullet points to clearly outline your experience with ERP systems, supplier negotiations, and any relevant projects that highlight your ability to work independently in a complex setting.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you one step closer to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at X4 Technology
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's supply chain processes and their specific challenges. Familiarise yourself with their products and how they fit into the renewables sector. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the role and how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you successfully improved supplier performance or reduced costs. Be ready to discuss your approach to commercial negotiations, as this is a key aspect of the role. Highlight any innovative strategies you've used to achieve long-term value agreements.
✨Bring Data to the Table
Since analytical thinking is crucial for this position, come prepared with data-driven insights from your previous roles. Discuss how you've used data to make informed decisions in procurement and supply chain management. This will show that you can analyse supplier and cost data effectively.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
This role requires someone who thrives in fast-paced environments. Share experiences where you've had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances or manage multiple priorities. Emphasising your ability to work independently while still collaborating with teams will resonate well with the interviewers.
