Company Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Buyer to join our growing SME business. This is a key role responsible for managing the procurement of materials, products and services required to support day-to-day operations and project delivery. The successful candidate will play an important part in supplier management, cost control, stock planning, and ensuring that purchasing activities align with business needs, budgets, and delivery deadlines.
This position would suit a proactive individual with strong negotiation skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to build effective supplier relationships. Experience within an electrical or technical environment would be highly advantageous.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the purchasing of materials, products, components and services in line with business requirements.
- Source new suppliers and negotiate pricing, terms, and service agreements to achieve best value for the business.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with existing suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and timely delivery.
- Monitor stock levels and forecast purchasing requirements to support operational and project demands.
- Raise, process and track purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company procedures.
- Work closely with operations, warehouse, projects and finance teams to ensure materials are available when required.
- Review supplier performance, lead times, pricing trends and quality issues, implementing improvements where necessary.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings, improved efficiencies and supply chain improvements.
- Resolve any supply, pricing, invoice or delivery discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier information and procurement reports.
- Support budgeting processes by providing purchasing data, market pricing insight and spend analysis.
- Ensure procurement activities are carried out in accordance with company policies, commercial requirements and health & safety standards where applicable.
- Assist in the development and implementation of purchasing strategies to support business growth and operational performance.
- Provide support and guidance to junior purchasing or administrative team members where required.
Person Specification
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a Buyer / Senior Buyer / Procurement role.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Experience of managing purchasing activities within a busy operational or project-led environment.
- Good commercial awareness with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or service.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple tasks effectively.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Competent in Microsoft Office and purchasing / ERP systems.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced SME environment.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Previous experience within an electrical, engineering, manufacturing, construction or technical supply environment would be highly advantageous.
- Knowledge of electrical materials, components, suppliers or project procurement processes would be beneficial.
- Experience of working within an SME business and supporting operational growth.
- Understanding of stock control, inventory management and supply chain best practice.
Qualifications
- A relevant qualification in Purchasing, Procurement, Supply Chain, Business, or a related discipline would be desirable.
- Professional accreditation such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply), or willingness to work towards this, would be strongly supported by the business.
What We Offer
- Salary of £40,000 per annum
- Opportunity to play a key role within a growing SME business
- Support for ongoing professional development and industry training
- Support towards relevant professional accreditation where appropriate
- Friendly and collaborative working environment
- Opportunity to contribute to process improvements and business growth
- 36.5 hour week - flexible hours
Summary
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Buyer to join a growing business where they can make a real impact on purchasing performance, supplier relationships and operational efficiency. Candidates with some electrical industry knowledge or background will be at a distinct advantage, although this is not essential for the right individual with strong buying and procurement experience.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
