Buyer

Buyer (Manufacturing)

Location: Southampton

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

Are you a proactive Buyer with experience in procurement and supply chain operations? Do you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where no two days are the same? We are partnering with an innovative engineering and manufacturing business looking to strengthen its procurement team with the addition of a Buyer.

The Role

Working as part of a busy Procurement team, you'll play a key role in ensuring the timely supply of materials to support production schedules and business growth. You'll manage supplier relationships, maintain purchasing data, support inventory optimisation and drive cost-saving initiatives across both direct and indirect spend categories.

Key Responsibilities

• Raise and manage purchase orders through the company's ERP system.
• Ensure supplier acknowledgements are received and meet required delivery dates.
• Maintain accurate procurement data, including lead times, MOQ/MPQ settings and order book management.
• Build and develop strong supplier relationships to improve service levels and supply chain performance.
• Negotiate pricing, terms and contracts to achieve cost savings without compromising quality.
• Support inventory management activities to ensure material availability while minimising excess stock.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Planning, Engineering and Warehouse teams.
• Monitor supplier performance and contribute to KPI development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support risk mitigation strategies and supply continuity planning.

About You

We're looking for someone who is commercially aware, detail-oriented and eager to contribute to a growing business.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years' procurement or purchasing experience.
• Experience within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using MRP/ERP systems.
• Strong Excel and Office 365 skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage priorities and work to deadlines.

Desirable:

• CIPS qualification or equivalent.
• Experience purchasing both direct and indirect materials.
• Knowledge of technical or engineered products.
• Ability to read basic technical drawings.
• Previous experience with Syspro ERP.

What's On Offer?

• Opportunity to join a growing and innovative manufacturing business.
• Exposure to a broad procurement remit across direct and indirect spend.
• Collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Genuine opportunities for career development and professional growth.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

If you're looking to take the next step in your procurement career and make a tangible impact within a successful manufacturing operation, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion.