Physical Properties Testing (PPT) Group is a high-growth global leader in physical properties and materials testing solutions, helping manufacturers and laboratories push performance, quality, and compliance to the next level. With a portfolio of market-leading brands and a strong international footprint, PPT Group is expanding its team and seeking a driven Internal Sales Engineer to bolster its next phase of growth.
The role of Buyer is proactive and commercially focused procurement professional, who supports the delivery of exceptional service to our customers through effective sourcing and supplier management. Responsible for procuring both direct and indirect materials, managing assigned commodities and supplier accounts, and ensuring purchasing activities are delivered in line with company procedures, KPIs, and customer expectations.
You will play a key role in driving supplier performance across delivery, quality, cost, and continuous improvement targets, while supporting the implementation of short-, medium-, and long-term purchasing strategies. Working closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers, you will ensure contracts, SLAs, and supplier audits are effectively managed in accordance with departmental quality assurance procedures and best-practice procurement standards.
Job Type
Fixed Term – 9 months
Some of the Responsibilities of the role are:
· Lead sourcing and supplier selection (UK & overseas) to meet cost, quality and delivery requirements.
· Deliver cost reduction and value initiatives; negotiate pricing, contracts, SLAs and manage price variance impacts.
· Manage supplier performance, quality and compliance, including audits/visits and corrective action activities.
· Plan and execute purchasing activity in an MRP environment; manage open orders and shortages to support the production plan.
· Optimise inventory through strategic purchasing and accurate master data maintenance in Microsoft Dynamics.
· Provide procurement leadership and support to cross-functional teams, projects and business meetings (including NPI).
· Track market and supply chain trends and confirm supplier capacity to meet short-, medium- and long-term requirements.
· Report purchasing performance and KPIs; communicate supplier performance and drive continuous improvement.
· Maintain professional relationships with internal/external customers; comply with ISO processes, Health & Safety and undertake other reasonable duties.
Competence Profile
The successful candidate will possess the following competencies in line with the PPT Group Company values:
- The ability to work independently and Collaboratively as part of a team is essential
- The ability to ensure that others understand instructions and directions through clear accurate communications
- Display leadership behaviours in all activities, taking the lead where appropriate
- The ability to organise tasks to meet targets. Making most efficient use of time and other resources.
- The ability to apply and share knowledge and practical techniques to solve technical problems.
- A commitment to Health & Safety and Quality standards and understanding of the implications in the work place.
- The ability to demonstrate energy, drive, commitment and dedication to achieving both own and company success.
- The ability to adopt and promote an Innovative Continuous Improvement methodology to all activities
- The ability to identify, respond to and provide solutions to both internal and external customers through a consistent Customer Focus approach
Personal Qualities:
· Proactive problem solving skills
· Ability to think and operate strategically
· Competent in analytical and evaluative techniques
· Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence, persuade and communicate with people at all levels
· Able to work under pressure, make decisions and meet tight deadlines without compromising safety or quality
· Has an Ownership mindset and owns their commitments
· Strives for Excellence and continuously aims higher
· Self motivated and results driven
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team
· Flexibility, Energy and Drive to promote and respond to changing requirements
· Resilient and calm
· Dedicated and conscientious
· High levels of Integrity and Professionalism
Employment & Qualification Background:
· Experience of procurement in a manufacturing setting is essential
· Experience of operating in an MRP environment preferably with Microsoft Dynamics AX
· Familiarity with world class management techniques and supplier improvement initiatives
· Ability to project manage and lead
· A proven track record of successful cost negotiation
· Demonstrable New Product Introduction experience.
· Strong analytical skills in Excel
· CIPS or working towards the qualification will be a distinct advantage
Pay: From £38,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
