Operational Buyer in Cambridge

Operational Buyer - CambourneAre you an experienced Operational Buyer, Buyer or Procurement Specialist looking for a fast-paced role within a global manufacturing environment? Do you enjoy managing supplier relationships, expediting deliveries, resolving supply issues and ensuring critical materials are available to support production?Welcome to ZEISS.ZEISS is an internationally leading technology company operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries. ZEISS is shaping technological progress and through its solutions is extending the horizon of the world of optics and associated areas.ZEISS consists of four segments: Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology and Consumer Markets.This is an exciting opportunity to join the Global Supply Chain Management Electron Microscopy team, supporting manufacturing operations through effective supplier management, material planning and procurement activities across an international supply chain.What you'll be doingWorking within the Supply Chain Management Electron Microscopy Organisation at ZEISS , you will act as the key interface between suppliers and internal stakeholders, ensuring materials are delivered on time to support manufacturing operations in both Cambourne and Oberkochen.You'll take ownership of a supplier base of 70+ suppliers , proactively managing orders, expediting deliveries, resolving shortages and ensuring continuity of supply in a fast-paced production environment.Key Responsibilities:Manage the end-to-end order lifecycle from placement through to deliveryExpedite supplier orders and proactively manage delivery performanceMonitor supplier commitments, identify risks and implement mitigation actionsManage and resolve material shortages to minimise impact on productionBuild and maintain strong working relationships with suppliersConduct supplier performance reviews and monitor key performance metricsMaintain accurate supplier and material master data within SAPSupport forecasting and demand planning activitiesInvestigate and resolve invoice discrepancies and payment-related queriesMonitor pricing changes and supplier performance trendsCreate and maintain procurement dashboards and reporting toolsCollaborate closely with Production Planning, Supply Chain and Manufacturing teamsIdentify opportunities to improve and automate procurement processesParticipate in continuous improvement and value stream mapping activitiesEnsure compliance with company policies, procedures and regulatory requirementsWork closely with international suppliers to ensure material availability and on-time deliveryWhat We're Looking ForExperience as an Operational Buyer, Buyer or Procurement Specialist, ideally with 3+ years' experienceExperience managing the full order lifecycle from placement through to deliveryStrong supplier management and relationship-building skillsProven experience expediting orders and managing supplier performanceExperience resolving material shortages and supply chain issuesSAP experience, ideally as a confident day-to-day userExperience working within a manufacturing or engineering environmentStrong stakeholder management and communication skillsAbility to prioritise multiple tasks and work effectively within a fast-paced environmentStrong Microsoft Office skills, particularly ExcelExcellent organisational skills and attention to detailAbility to analyse and manage large volumes of dataConfidence escalating issues and driving resolutions when requiredExperience working with international suppliers would be advantageousExposure to demand planning, continuous improvement or procurement process optimisation would be beneficialWe want you!With motivation and passion, you'll fit right in at ZEISS!We're looking for someone who is proactive, organised and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Someone who takes ownership, communicates confidently with suppliers and stakeholders, and isn't afraid to challenge, escalate and drive actions when required.In return, you'll join a globally recognised technology leader, benefit from flexible working hours, a hybrid working model , and enjoy clear progression opportunities into Project Buyer and Lead Buyer positions as your career develops.If you want to make a real impact within an international manufacturing supply chain and build your career with ZEISS, we'd love to hear from you.Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:Abigail Hannaby, Farzana Rahman, Kate Benyon, Lara Haslam, Natarlee Lawrence, Suya Rolph #J-18808-Ljbffr