Buyer, Manufacturing ​/ Production

Overview

We at JKR are excited to be partnering with one of our longest standing clients in recruiting a brand-new Buyer position!

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and growing engineering company. Our client has been in operation for over 40 years and they are continuing to expand their customer base and service offering.

We are looking for a highly proactive individual, who will be overseeing all sub‑contract suppliers associated with our client's manufacturing, ensuring products are progressed efficiently to meet customer delivery requirements.

The position also involves maintaining accurate cost and expenditure records, managing data and supporting general purchasing activities.

• Manage day‑to‑day purchasing for all sub‑contract operations associated with manufacturing, including order placement, confirmations and delivery tracking
• Build strong working relationships with suppliers and assist in negotiating pricing, terms, and lead times
• Work with the Quality Department to identify alternative suppliers to strengthen supply resilience and mitigate production risks
• Monitor supplier performance (On Time, In Full, Quality, Invoice Accuracy) and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Track and maintain stock levels in line with production forecasts and customer demand
• Maintain accurate purchasing and inventory records in the ERP system, ensuring robust financial control
• Communicate supplier lead times and escalates risks or delays to prevent production disruption
• Update and record sub‑contract supplier approvals within the ERP system
• Provide general purchasing support and cover in the absence of the Purchasing Manager

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with suppliers and internal teams via phone, email, and in person
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage tasks independently as well as collaboratively
• Professional, well‑presented, and discreet, with a clear understanding of confidentiality requirements

• Previous experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain preferably in a manufacturing environment
• Strong numerical, analytical, and problem solving skills
• Organised, detail‑oriented and commercially aware
• Experience with BOMs, technical specifications, ERP systems and inventory control is highly advantageous
• Experience operating in an engineering environment
• Strong IT proficiency, including Microsoft Word and Excel, accurate data‑entry skills with the ability to produce clear, meaningful reports

• 08:30‑17:00 Monday‑Thursday, 08:30‑16:00 Friday (39‑hour week)