Position Summary
The Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement of materials, components and services required to support manufacturing operations. This role ensures continuity of supply while optimising cost, quality and delivery performance.
The successful candidate will evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts and maintain accurate purchasing documentation, supporting the organisation in achieving its operational and strategic objectives.
The position also involves identifying and qualifying new suppliers, supporting the development of junior purchasing staff and ensuring compliance with ethical sourcing guidelines and professional procurement standards.
Essential Functions / Responsibilities
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Raise purchase orders in accordance with established procedures.
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Issue requests for quotation (RFQs), analyse quotations and recommend the most appropriate commercial and technical options.
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Negotiate pricing, contractual terms and delivery schedules with suppliers.
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Prepare and maintain regular supplier performance reports.
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Conduct supplier visits to assess capability, capacity and ethical standards.
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Identify and qualify new suppliers to reduce single-source dependency and supply chain risk.
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Coordinate shipping requests and associated administrative activities.
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Review material demand and safety stock requirements, placing orders while considering price breaks, stock levels, rework potential and obsolescence risks.
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Raise assembly orders to support production and safety stock requirements.
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Maintain and update sales bill of materials (BOM) pricing information.
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Make authorised online purchases as required.
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Maintain supplier certifications and compliance documentation.
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Prepare and distribute regular inventory reports.
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Monitor supplier delivery schedules and escalate issues where necessary.
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Assess suppliers for risks relating to fraud, bribery and money laundering.
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Identify trends in supplier delivery and quality performance and implement corrective actions where required.
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Train and support junior purchasing team members.
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Adhere to recognised professional procurement standards, ethical sourcing principles and internal procedures.
Qualifications / Experience Required
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Ideally, at least three years' purchasing experience within a manufacturing environment.
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Strong documentation and organisational skills.
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Ability to interpret, follow and develop procedures.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 and ERP/business management systems.
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High level of attention to detail.
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Ability to train, support and mentor junior colleagues.
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CIPS Level 4 qualification or currently working towards it.
Preferred Qualifications / Experience
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Experience conducting supplier audits and monitoring supplier performance.
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Background in supply chain risk assessment, supplier compliance or ethical sourcing.
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Familiarity with inventory planning, stock management and safety stock methodologies
