Buyer – Manufacturing
Location: Swadlincote
Salary: Competitive + benefits
Type: Permanent

We are recruiting for a Buyer to join a well-established manufacturing organisation in Swadlincote. This is a key role within the procurement function, responsible for ensuring the effective sourcing, purchasing, and supply of materials to support operational requirements.

The position offers a balance of strategic sourcing, supplier management, and day-to-day purchasing activity within a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Sourcing

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers where required
• Obtain competitive quotations and carry out price benchmarking
• Support and manage tender processes and formal procurement activities
• Ensure best value is achieved across all purchasing decisions

Supplier Management

• Develop and maintain strong, effective supplier relationships
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and contribute to scorecards
• Support contract negotiations, including pricing and service agreements

Operational Support

• Work closely with production planning and warehouse teams to ensure timely material availability
• Monitor delivery performance to ensure orders arrive on time and in full
• Resolve supply issues and expedite urgent requirements where necessary

Cost Management & Reporting

• Track market trends and pricing movements for key materials
• Maintain accurate cost and supplier data within the ERP system
• Support cost reduction and value improvement initiatives
• Produce regular reports on savings and procurement performance

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure all procurement activities align with internal policies and financial controls
• Maintain accurate supplier records, contracts, and pricing documentation
• Support the onboarding process for new suppliers, including compliance checks
• Assist with internal and external audits as required

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience within a purchasing, procurement, or supply chain role
• Experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment is preferred
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• High level of attention to detail and strong analytical capability
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and familiar with ERP systems
• Commercially aware with a cost-focused approach to decision-making

Qualifications

• Relevant experience in procurement or supply chain is essential
• Exposure to sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, or construction materials would be advantageous
• CIPS qualification (or working towards) is desirable but not essential

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and solutions-focused approach
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to build effective working relationships