Strategic Buyer

Job Title: Strategic Buyer
Location: Maidenhead
Salary: £60,000 - £70,000

Our client, a leading organisation in the engineering and manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced Strategic Buyer to take ownership of strategic sourcing initiatives across key spend categories.

This position is ideal for a commercially driven procurement professional who can deliver measurable results, build strong stakeholder relationships, and influence sourcing strategies in a complex, high-technology environment.

Key Responsibilities as a Strategic Buyer:

• Develop and execute long-term category strategies that deliver cost savings, improve quality, and reduce supply risk.
• Conduct market analysis, benchmarking, and supplier assessments to identify sourcing opportunities, including supplier rationalisation.
• Lead RFx processes (RFI, RFP, RFQ), manage supplier negotiations, and oversee contract execution for strategic spend categories.
• Partner with internal stakeholders across Business Units, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Legal, Finance, and Operations to ensure alignment of procurement strategies.
• Support supplier performance management, issue resolution, and periodic reviews to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Monitor industry trends and market shifts to proactively adjust sourcing strategies.
• Develop KPIs, dashboards, and performance reports for category management.
• Drive initiatives for sustainability, innovation, and cost optimisation within assigned categories.
• Ensure strict adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and ethical standards.
• Mentor and support procurement staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

To be suited to this opportunity as a Strategic Buyer, you should be experienced in:

• Strategic Thinking Long-term planning, market insight, and innovation.
• Negotiation & Supplier Management Proven ability to secure advantageous terms and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Contract Management Expertise in drafting, reviewing, and executing complex supplier contracts.
• Analytical & Financial Acumen Skilled in cost modelling, TCO analysis, and financial assessment.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset Resilient, adaptable, and committed to operational excellence.

Qualifications & Experience required as a Strategic Buyer:

• Prior experience in strategic procurement sourcing.
• Previous track record in strategy development and execution within a complex supply chain.
• In-depth knowledge of strategic sourcing, contract management, and SRM.
• Experience in engineering and manufacturing environments.
• Experienced in MRP-based procurement processes.
• CIPS qualified.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with a well-established business. If the opportunity as a Strategic Buyer appeals to you, please apply and contact Jemma at Orion Reading.