Reporting to Supply Chain & Continuous Improvement Manager, the Commodity Specialist will be responsible for executing the supply chain strategy, developing, and driving strong risk mitigated supply partnerships, to ensure the delivery of quality products and services on plan, at the lowest cost of ownership. Key Responsibilities: Commodity Responsibility Facilitate the introduction of new parts, adapting the supply chain to support emerging needs. Creating the strategy and managing the end-to-end execution of procurement activities for an engineering-based portfolio. Formulate and negotiate contractual engagements within Chess Dynamics T&C’s and framework agreements to support contracting and aftermarket requirements. Develop and drive strong supply partnerships identifying opportunities to climb the value chain and maximise value add to deliver a high performing agile supply chain network. Identify and develop new supply sources capable of meeting our demanding specifications, commercial, compliance and sustainability needs. Prepare and publish Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Quotation (RFQ) documentation. Providing detailed cost benefit analysis and return on investment proposals. Execute change, managing the process of engagement, disengagement and change management throughout the contract life. Conduct regular site visits and business reviews, examining performance, and setting improvement goals to meet functional objectives. Perform regular risk assessments and supplier audits, validating suppliers and their investments to ensure that our combined business directions remain convergent. Identify, lead, and execute continuous improvement initiatives within our internal and external partnerships. Deploy problem solving techniques to drive a step change in supplier performance and resolve issues at a root cause level. Skills & Experience Essential Strong analytically with good IT skills and a working knowledge of using MRP/ERP systems. Experienced in technical, engineering, and machined part buying with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and understand associated manufacturing processes. Forming and constructing contracts Desirable Experience of working within integrated project management teams CIPS Level 4 or above Personal Attributes Demonstrates our company values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence and Courage. A team player able to liaise and work collaboratively cross functionally. Excellent communication, interpersonal and written skills. Organized, with a high attention to detail. Proactive, able to plan, organize, execute, and monitor performance across the supply chain, driving for results. Resilient, agile, and adaptable to changing priorities. Able to operate under pressure, multi task and deliver to exacting timescales. Work life balance: 37.5 hour working week Lunchtime finishes on a Friday Hybrid / flexible working arrangements 28 days annual leave Christmas closure Holiday purchasing scheme Benefits: Group pension plan – matched contributions up to 5% Income protection scheme and Employee Assistance Programme Employee Assistance Programme gives you and your family access to 4 key services including remote GP service, second opinion, mental health pathway service and physiotherapy consultations Life assurance policy, including bereavement counselling and probate helpline Company shares incentive plan and save as you earn scheme Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme Wellbeing initiatives, including access to wellbeing app and the addition of mental health support for all employees. Plus, regular activities across our sites to support and promote wellbeing Regular sports and social activities Gym membership discounts Reward platform (high street discounts, employee benefits, health, and wellbeing offerings). Recruitment referral bonus scheme Excellent learning & development opportunities Great working environment with free, onsite car parking across all our locations Security Clearance Requirements: Due to the nature of our business, our staff need to be able to obtain UK Security Clearance as a mandated requirement. Therefore, if successful, you will need to provide proof of identity, employment history and right to work in the UK, along with proof of UK residency for at least five years.