Company Overview

An established precision engineering business is looking to appoint a Senior Buyer to support its continued growth and transformation. This is a key opportunity to join a forward-thinking, engineering-led organisation going through a major period of modernisation and investment.

With a full order book and a target to more than double turnover in the next five years, this role offers genuine scope for someone looking to influence real change. Reporting into the Supply Chain Manager, the role will focus on procurement for complex fabrication projects across defence, oil & gas, and nuclear sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

Interpret and understand complex engineering and fabrication drawings to support procurement activities
Source materials from approved suppliers and international vendors where required
Negotiate pricing and commercial terms to drive value and support cost-saving initiatives
Ensure full documentation traceability and supplier compliance for all purchased items
Manage and maintain procurement records in line with ERP system requirements
Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to align procurement activity with project timelines
Identify and implement opportunities for improvement in supply chain efficiency and material control
Support ERP integration and contribute to continuous improvement in procurement processes

Essential Skills & Experience:

Strong understanding of fabrication and machining processes
Experience working in a manufacturing or engineering environment (essential)
Full knowledge of material traceability requirements and documentation
Ability to read and interpret engineering and technical drawings
Proficiency in ERP systems (EFACS experience desirable)
Commercial acumen and negotiation experience with UK and international suppliers
Familiarity with MOD security protocols and eligible for (or already holding) SC clearance
Experience sourcing raw materials, particularly metals and steels

Desirable Attributes:

CIPS qualification or actively working towards it (full funding provided)
Knowledge of lean practices and continuous improvement methodologies
Ability to analyse data and monitor market trends to inform purchasing strategy
Experience in long lead-time, project-based environments
Background in regulated sectors such as defence or aerospace
Comfortable contributing to ERP system implementation and process development

Benefits Include:

5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays (2 days to be used for Christmas shutdown)
Profit-sharing bonus scheme (typically 2,000 per year)
Defined contribution pension scheme (up to 6% employer contribution)
Life insurance (2 x annual salary)
Company phone and laptop
Full support and funding for CIPS qualification

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Buyer with fabrication experience and a background in technical purchasing to take the next step in their career with a company that values innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.

Apply now to be considered.