About this role
Strategic Buyer
- Location: Colchester
- Salary: Competitive + Benefits
- Job Type: Full-time
We are seeking a Strategic Buyer with a robust background in manufacturing and strategic sourcing. This role offers an excellent opportunity for an ambitious procurement professional to influence supplier strategy, develop long-term partnerships, and support complex manufacturing operations.
Day-to-day of the role
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies for key commodity groups.
- Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers to support business objectives.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to enhance quality, cost, and delivery performance.
- Lead supplier development initiatives and continuous improvement programs.
- Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial agreements.
- Deliver measurable cost reduction and value engineering projects.
- Conduct market analysis, supplier benchmarking, and cost modelling.
- Collaborate closely with Engineering teams to align technical requirements with supplier capabilities.
- Support new product introductions and manufacturing projects from a procurement perspective.
- Engage with international suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure a robust supply chain.
- Monitor supply chain risks and strategize for improvements.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available).
- 3-5 years' experience in strategic procurement, sourcing, or category management within a manufacturing or engineered products environment.
- Demonstrated ability in supplier management and development.
- Proven track record of delivering cost savings and commercial improvements.
- Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience with international suppliers.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Highly desirable: Experience in complex manufacturing, ability to understand engineering drawings, and exposure to global supply chains.
Benefits
- Opportunity to join a highly respected manufacturing organisation.
- Strategic and commercially focused role with significant influence.
- Exposure to international suppliers and stakeholders.
- Collaborative environment working closely with Engineering and Operations teams.
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
If you are a strategic sourcing professional with a strong manufacturing background and are looking to advance your career, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.