SENIOR BUYER
Our client stands as a preeminent force in the realm of independent defence technology solutions. They specialise in delivering supreme engineering expertise, advanced technology systems and comprehensive support services where the imperatives of reliability, safety and protection are non-negotiable. They are a key operational supplier to UK defence and offer their services globally.
PURPOSE OF ROLE – SENIOR BUYER
Reporting to the site MD, the Senior Buyer role is as follows: · Identify and interpret the purchasing requirements generated by Central Planning, the various Project Managers, Production Managers and Senior Management. · Identify suitable existing suppliers or introduce new ones. · Manage the Group’s purchasing requirements to the relevant Sub contractors. · Pro-actively manage the supplier base in order to achieve on cost and on time deliveries, even when substantial changes to original purchase requirements occur. · Ensure suppliers are task orientated and that any barriers to their performance are removed. · Liaise with and collate internal resources to support Sub contractors (specifically engineering).
Job specific responsibilities · Minimise financial and legal liability to the business at all times · Pro-active avoidance of any potential risks relating to late product delivery and/or unsuitable product quality by sub-contractors. · Feedback to internal resources of Supplier Performance and contract specific progress by Sub-Contractor. · React immediately to “Project critical” purchasing requirements as required.
GENERAL · Excellent written and verbal communication skills. · Ability to be flexible and work outside core hours on occasion. · Travel to other group sites and occasional overseas travel may be required. · Must be able to work in the UK without restrictions & meet UK government security vetting criteria.
COMPETENCIES & SKILLS · Ability to negotiate suppliers to a desired outcome · Capability to think on your feet in lieu of other guidance · Strong negotiation and assertiveness abilities
KNOWLEDGE, QUALIFICATIONS & · Business process awareness · Detailed understanding of commercial principles and practices, and commercial needs of suppliers and their relevant employees · Broad awareness of Military Standards and suppliers compliance therein · Ability to understand suppliers profit factors and chains of distribution · Ideally “CIPS” qualified but not essential · Working within a dynamic and fast paced purchasing function for a minimum 5 years · Basic knowledge of metal fabrication, electro mechanic assembly and general engineering process · An understanding of current tooling / process technology
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AND WORKLIFE BALANCE · Competitive salary. · Training & development opportunities. · Apprenticeship programs. · Company pension. · Early finish on Fridays. · Free guest accommodation in various locations (home and aboard). · Birthday holiday. · Service milestones. · 25 days holiday, including 3 days Christmas closure, plus Bank Holidays (x8) · Recruitment Reward Scheme. · Flexible maternity options after month 9. · Paid paternity leave.
Forward Assist Recruitment is operating as an employment agency. Forward Assist Recruitment is an Equal Opportunities employer; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds