- Lead and coordinate the purchasing team to achieve tasks efficiently and on time.
- Foster a positive, improvement-focused culture through regular one-to-one meetings, appraisals, and development plans.
- Support budget preparation and management, deputising for the Supply Chain Director when required.
- Maintain accurate and audited purchasing data, collaborating with internal teams and suppliers to ensure data integrity.
- Develop and implement commodity strategies to meet programme requirements.
- Measure, analyse, and improve supply chain performance as part of the leadership team.
- Manage inventory levels to meet targets, forecast accurately, and mitigate financial impact of obsolete stock.
- Negotiate supplier agreements, including pricing, terms, and long-term contracts, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery targets are met.
- Benchmark suppliers and rationalise the supply base to align with business objectives.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and lean methodology across the purchasing function.
- Proven experience in international sourcing and buying for manufactured products.
- Proficiency in MRP & ERP systems (Epicor experience advantageous).
- Strong commercial and financial acumen with expertise in supplier performance management.
- Background in multi-site manufacturing and knowledge of engineering processes (ideal).
- CIPS qualification (or willingness to work towards it).
- Understanding of continuous improvement or lean methodology.
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure and prioritise workloads.
- Effective communicator and team player, capable of building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.