Materials Buyer

Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, you will negotiate and co-ordinate the timely, cost-effective supply of all materials, sub-assemblies and support services to the point of need, ensuring that company cost and performance targets are achieved. The role involves close liaison and active contribution with Planning, Sales and Manufacturing disciplines, and managing a portfolio of suppliers with reviews and action plans for continuous improvement.

This is an office-based role at our Crayford site with fixed hours agreed as either 8:00–16:00, 8:30–16:30 or 9:00–17:00, plus 25 days' holiday and 8 bank holidays.

• Complete the daily MRP output and manage procurement through the ERP system
• Develop long-term supply relationships with key vendors, using supply chain management techniques to ensure the timely and cost-effective supply of all materials
• Give preference to new sources that hold ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification or equivalent, supporting a responsible attitude to quality and environmental issues
• Work closely with Sales and Engineering on new development projects, contributing cost-effective solutions and competent sources of supply
• Negotiate cost and lead-time reductions on bespoke and proprietary components
• Ensure vendors of critical parts understand they are required to provide 100% on-time delivery performance and will be measured as such
• Develop new possibilities and opportunities for buffer and KANBAN replenishment systems
• Understand and utilise the electronic supply chain, both direct and distribution
• Assist the Purchasing Manager in ensuring departmental objectives are met

• A good standard of secondary education, preferably to A level (CIPS membership an advantage)
• At least 12 months' experience in a similar role (electronics experience an advantage)
• Thorough understanding of computerised manufacturing systems (ERP, MPS)
• Understanding of modern supply methods including JIT and KANBAN
• Knowledge of cost reduction techniques and component recognition skills
• Strong negotiation skills, with the ability to communicate at all levels
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Computer literate, including Word, Excel and PDF Writer
• An accurate, attention-to-detail approach with a hands-on attitude to all tasks