We are now recruiting for a Senior Buyer with extensive experience within the defence and electronics industries, to join our client, a global engineering and construction contractor based at their site in Dorset. This is a full time contract role with an anticipated duration of 6-8 months. The Senior Buyer will operate as part of the Vigilant Procurement & Supply Chain team supporting the Procurement Manager in establishing the project procurement mechanics.Knowledge of MoD procurement processes is essential. Responsibilities will include: Work with Procurement and Supply Chain team members, cross-functional stakeholders (e.g. representatives from Quality, Project Management, Engineering and Finance) and suppliers to ensure the timely implementation of Procurement processes relating to the selection, evaluation and approval of new suppliers, and reassessment of existing suppliers. Use of very good business acumen, external environment analysis, supplier intelligence and vulnerability assessments to make risk-based recommendations on the suitability of suppliers for the line of business. Know how to operate within the governance framework. Ensure the requirements of EN9100 are met and supplier approval decisions can stand the scrutiny of internal and external audit. Provide advice on relevant Procurement policies to non-Procurement staff making the case for the added value of these processes. Implementation of supplier management and development techniques, taking responsibility to address instances of under-performance both internally and externally to the line of business. Participation in cross-functional site assessments of suppliers, identifying potential risks and opportunities for improvement, and following up on actions. Skills & Experience required: In-depth understanding of how Procurement and Supply Chain co-ordinates its efforts and resources with other functions to achieve shared objectives. In-depth understanding of the legal, regulatory and contractual requirements, and priorities and governance for area of responsibility. Knowledge of UK Defence Sector and its supply chain - recognise key players in market. Knowledge of MoD procurement processes. Technical Skills/Knowledge Able to adapt approach to ensure decisions support an optimised business outcome, whilst considering stakeholder relationships. Able to communicate and influence across the immediate team and able to influence wider stakeholders and external suppliers. Able to deal with all scenarios when dealing with Procurement and Supply Chain activities. Accuracy and attention to detail essential. A proactive approach to solving problems, guiding cross-functional stakeholders to make informed decisions based on risk and opportunity analysis, business acumen, knowledge, experience and total cost of acquisition principles. A focus on developing solutions to complex problems, actively contributing to the development of process improvements and efficiencies. Full Job Description available upon request Job Details: Start date: ASAP Contract duration: 6-8 months (may be extended) Location: Dorset Working hours: 37 hrs per week - 3 days office based, 2 days remote working. Rate: c. £50 p/h PAYE - please note that this role has been deemed to be inside IR35. Security Clearance will be required. UK Nationality only (British born) - please contact us directly for further details