The Role: Purchasing Manager - China
Location: Knutsford, England (onsite)
About Us
Oliver Twinsafe Valves Ltd is a UK based manufacturer of high quality pipeline ball valves and double block and bleed valves. Established in 2000, we are a sister company to Oliver Valves Ltd and Oliver Valvetek Ltd. Our customers include all the major Oil and Gas operators, plus other markets such as Petro Chemical and Power. Our valves are installed in critical applications across the globe, providing maximum operator safety and long maintenance free service life.
The Role
To strengthen our existing team, we are appointing a Purchasing Manager to take full accountability for our expansion into the Chinese market.
Reporting to the Global Purchasing Director, the successful candidate will manage a significant portion of a £50m spend in machine parts for our build programs in two state-of-the-art facilities in Knutsford and Chennai.
Key Responsibilities
As Purchasing Manager, you will work in close partnership with our China-based Supplier & Quality Development Engineer. Together, you will bridge the gap between commercial negotiation in the UK and technical execution on the ground in China, ensuring every component meets the "Oliver Standard."
Your Priorities:
China Supply Chain Lead: Identify and vet high-performance third-party raw material manufacturers and machine shops, building a resilient and scalable vendor base.
Technical Procurement: Use your mechanical engineering background to manage complex "component machining" requirements.
Cost & Cash Flow: Relentlessly drive down the total cost of acquisition. We need a strong negotiator who can maximize margins without sacrificing quality.
Demand Optimization: Balance supply with build programs to ensure 100% on-time delivery and
availability for our assembly and test facilities.
The Profile
Senior management experience in mechanical engineering and procurement, with a proven track record in China, Europe, and India.
Understanding of the machine shop environment—you know how parts are made, what they should cost, and how to spot a quality risk.
Common sense, enthusiasm, and a "win-win" negotiation style are essential.
What’s On Offer?
This is a key appointment for a person with drive and ambition. We offer a highly attractive salary and fringe benefits package. Candidates must live within a one-hour commute of Knutsford.
Ready to lead our China Strategy?
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter highlighting how your experience matches our requirements.
