Buyer, Supply Chain​/Logistics

About the Company

Textron Specialized Vehicles is a global manufacturer of golf cars, utility and personal transportation vehicles, side-by-side, all-terrain vehicles, professional turf‑care equipment, and ground support equipment.

We are seeking a Buyer that will be office based at our manufacturing facility in Ipswich, Suffolk. As a Buyer, you will play a key role in ensuring the consistent supply of materials and components that keep our operations running smoothly.

• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost and delivery performance for current production and service parts.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times and MOQs to achieve cost savings while maintaining quality and compliance standards. Contracts may be negotiated jointly or by the Senior Buyers.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent performance and resolve issues related to delivery, quality or pricing.
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality and Production teams to understand technical specifications and material requirements related to ECOs, EDRs and concessions.
• Maintain accurate purchasing and supplier records, including pricing, lead‑times, MOQs and contact details, in line with company policies and UK regulations, including declarations of conformity, tariffs and country of origin.
• Support cost‑reduction initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement activities across the procurement function, including PPV/IPV.
• Ensure all procurement activities align with ethical sourcing practices, sustainability goals and industry standards.
• Utilise forecast data to support inventory management, preventing production delays and optimising stock levels. Support planning with CTB and proactively raise supply risks, including the management of de‑expedites and cancellations.
• Prepare reports on purchasing activity, cost savings and supplier performance for management review.
• Raise purchase orders, manage MRP exceptions and ensure timely PO acknowledgements.
• Support specific projects and undertake additional duties as required.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent experience). CIPS Level 3 (or working towards) is desirable.
• Experience:
  
  Minimum of three years’ experience in procurement or buying, ideally within an automotive or manufacturing environment.
• Technical Knowledge:
  Familiarity with automotive components and materials (e.g. metals, plastics, electronics) and manufacturing processes is advantageous.
• Negotiation
  
  Skills:
  
  Proven ability to negotiate favourable commercial terms and build effective supplier relationships.
• Analytical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong analytical capability with the ability to assess supplier performance, interpret data and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Communication:
  Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• IT
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficient in procurement systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Organisational
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong ability to prioritise workload, manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Attention to Detail:
  High level of accuracy and a focus on quality in all aspects of work.
• Problem Solving:
  Proactive, solution‑focused approach with a results‑driven mindset.
• Teamwork:
  Collaborative team player with the ability to work independently when required.
• Adaptability:
  Flexible and responsive to changing priorities and market conditions.

• Work‑life balance promoted with every other Friday off.
• 30 days annual leave.
• Competitive rate of pay, reviewed annually.
• Enhanced company pension.
• Life assurance of four times your annual salary.
• Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family.
• Access to Textron University’s self‑service training platform.
• Eye care scheme.
• Discounts on gym memberships, shopping and travel through Perks at Work.
• Winter flu vaccination voucher.