Are you an experienced Buyer looking for a role where you can take real ownership of supplier relationships and play a key part in driving value for the business?
Our client, a successful and growing manufacturer based in Hook, is seeking a proactive Buyer to join their dynamic procurement team. This is an excellent opportunity to manage both UK and overseas suppliers, oversee a significant spend across direct and indirect categories, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Job Title Buyer
Term Permanent
Location Hook
Salary up to £40,000 p.a
Ref 15881
Buyer - Benefits
The company offers a wealth of benefits including:
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holiday
- Annual performance related bonus
- Hybrid working and early finish on a Friday
- Training opportunities and study support for career development
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Life Assurance
- On-site parking
Buyer - About The Role
Reporting to the Procurement Manager, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of strategic suppliers, negotiating to achieve best value, and ensuring stock and supply levels are maintained. You’ll also play a key role in supplier benchmarking, risk management, and supporting new product development activities. Main responsibilities:
- Manage relationships with 7–8 key suppliers across direct and indirect categories (c. £2.5–£3.5m spend)
- Negotiate with suppliers to achieve the lowest overall acquisition cost
- Monitor and update MRP data (lead times, pricing, terms, etc.)
- Arrange transport and track deliveries to ensure on-time supply
- Lead RFQs and tender processes for new and existing suppliers
- Support sales and operations through supplier engagement and cost-reduction initiatives
- Take ownership of new product parts from costing through to launch
- Work with suppliers on problem-solving, quality issues, and continuous improvement
The successful Buyer will have:
- Previous experience in a procurement or buying role within manufacturing
- Strong negotiation skills, both internally and externally
- Strong problem-solving skills, able to resolve immediate issues and implement long-term solutions
- Highly organised with the ability to prioritise, multi-task, and meet deadlines
- Strong attention to detail, with the ability to monitor and check own work for accuracy
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to adapt style to suit audience
Howett Thorpe are acting as a recruitment agency in relation to this role and comply with all relevant UK legislation and do not discriminate on any protected characteristics. Due to the high volume of applications we currently receive, we are unable to respond to all candidates. If you do not hear from a Consultant within 5 working days, please assume that you have not been successful.
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