Project Buyer (NPI)
Location: Horsham
Purpose of the role
Responsible for co-ordination of Procurement & Supply Chain related activities for New Product Introduction and Projects as well as support for day-to-day procurement activities. The candidate will have experience of project buying, supplier selection and management of complex and diverse engineered components and services.
Key Accountabilities
Represent the Procurement Department in cross-functional teams driving New Product Introduction (NPI) and research projects, ensuring adherence to strict time, quality, and cost constraints.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications to ensure proper alignment with supplier outputs.
Identify potential vendors, issue RFQs and RFIs, and negotiate favourable terms and conditions. Ensure vendor capabilities align with project requirements.
Track supplier progress to ensure on-time delivery of tooling and samples at the specified quality level. Lead technical reviews with suppliers and design teams to confirm manufacturability, ensure drawing comprehension, and secure supplier acceptance in collaboration with the Supplier Quality.
Collaborate with Supplier Quality to resolve quality and delivery issues related to bought-in components. Apply knowledge of the 8D process to problem resolution.
Propose sourcing options for decision-making, guide engineering teams on component selections, and ensure all purchased parts are approved on time to meet project build schedules.
Ensure vendors have the necessary production capacity and tools in place. Collaborate with planners to ensure supply chain readiness for Development Validation and Manufacturing stages.
Support the design process through the Design Validation stage, collaborating closely with planners and ensuring proper supply chain alignment.
Ensure all MRP system settings are accurate and complete for a smooth production handover.
Identify Supply chain gaps and work within the team to ensure they are resolved.
Maintain and ensure the accuracy of purchase databases and procurement systems.
Contribute to the development and implementation of new procurement processes and procedures to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Assist with other procurement activities as needed, supporting the wider procurement team.
Provide clear, concise, and prompt status reports to management, summarizing key updates, risks, and project progress to enable informed decision-making.
Knowledge and skills required for the role
Several year’s experience in procurement, Supply chain management or Mechanical engineering preferably, strong awareness of numerous manufacturing processes
Relevant degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Supply Chain, or a related field
Understanding and practical experience with APQP processes and gate reviews.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, including advanced skills in Excel (for data analysis, reporting, forecasting) and PowerPoint (for presentations)
Demonstrated history in managing procurement projects through NPI or VAVE (Value Analysis and Value Engineering) programs
Strong interpersonal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers
Ability to adapt to fast-paced environments, manage multiple priorities, and resolve issues proactively
Desired Experience
Experience in supplier development, working with external vendors to improve performance and collaboration
Knowledge of industry regulations and standards relevant to supply chain and procurement processes
TPA are a specialist recruitment agency recruiting on behalf of our client.
If you think you are a close fit for this position, please do apply and we will also register you for any upcoming positions that may be suitable