Strategic Buyer - Indirect Materials

Are you an experienced Buyer with a background in manufacturing or engineering? This is an opportunity to take ownership of key supplier relationships, develop sourcing strategies and make a direct impact on cost, quality and continuity of supply. You’ll work closely with production, quality, design and supply chain teams to ensure the business has the materials and supplier capacity it needs, both now and as it grows.

Salary & Working Hours £55,000-£60,000, depending on experience. Monday-Thursday, 7.30am-4pm. Early finish at 2pm every Friday. Based in Burton upon Trent.

The Role As Strategic Buyer, you’ll combine commercial negotiation with supplier development and category planning. You’ll identify opportunities to reduce costs, strengthen the supply base and support operational requirements. Your responsibilities will include:
Developing commodity and sourcing strategies for key direct material categories. Negotiating and managing long-term supplier agreements to reduce risk and improve total cost of ownership. Supporting annual cost reduction targets of 5%. Reviewing supplier capabilities, performance and capacity to maintain reliable supply. Leading cross-functional sourcing, cost reduction and productivity projects. Analysing cost drivers and market trends to inform negotiations and purchasing decisions.

Resolving critical supply issues alongside operational teams and buyer planners. The role involves UK and international travel to suppliers and business locations, potentially up to 30% of your time. About You You’ll bring at least five years’ experience in procurement, supply chain or manufacturing, with a strong understanding of sourcing, materials management and supplier relationships. You’ll also have:
Strong negotiation and cost management skills. Experience developing suppliers and improving their performance. The ability to build effective relationships across production, quality, engineering and supply chain. A confident, analytical approach to solving problems and managing competing priorities. A thorough understanding of ERP/MRP systems and purchasing tools. Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel. The confidence to work independently and drive improvements.

A degree and/or MCIPS qualification would be advantageous, as would experience using JD Edwards.