Strategic Buyer / Far East Buyer

Senior Buyer / Supplier Relationship Manager

Procurement Head's Industrial team is working with a leading wholesaler to the building trade to hire a Strategic Buyer with exceptional Far East Supplier experience.

This business is over 30 years old and has grown significantly over the last 15 years. Currently a c£30million turnover business that is anticipated to grow substantially over the next few years and are looking for a Strategic Buyer to assist them to hit their ambitious growth targets.

Reporting to the Procurement Director, the Strategic Buyer will play an important role in providing strategy and efficiency to the procurement function. 

They will have a key focus on the supplier relationship development and management for business critical suppliers based in China and India.

This position requires a deep understanding of the supply chain and the ability to develop strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring their capability and identifying areas to mitigate risk such as implementing dual sourcing. Core spend areas across Steel, Wood, Concrete. 

This role will suit a commercially astute procurement professional with experience in international sourcing (Turkey, India & China being key locations), risk management and strategic procurement processes. You'll work on a hybrid basis, spending 2-3 days a week in the High Wycombe office and the rest working from home.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Developing and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of correct, quality materials at competitive prices. Previous experience improving working partnership with Far East suppliers
2. Interrogate supply chains, identify and mitigate risk
3. Sourcing, evaluating, and selecting suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery, and responsiveness to ensure the best value for the company
4. Continuously monitoring and evaluating supplier performance, implementing corrective actions as necessary
5. Collaborating with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and developing sourcing strategies that support their needs
6. Monitoring and analysing market trends, competitor activities, and industry developments to identify potential risks and opportunities
7. Ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures, and ethical standards in all procurement activities
8. Managing and maintaining accurate procurement records and data using Netsuite.

  
Key Background and Experience:

1. Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills
2. Attention to detail and ability to record data accurately
3. Commercial awareness – the ability to understand the business landscape
4. Exceptional SRM skills and approaches

  
Benefits:

1. Up to £60,000 salary
2. 15% bonus
3. Full medical insurance for the individual and their spouse or partner
4. Pension
5. Numerous perks