Materials Planner/Buyer

My client are an established electrical equipment manufacturer with over 100 years of experience. They design and manufacture high power electrical resistors used in electricity generation, transmission and distribution as well as in the industrial automation, marine, telecoms and rail transit markets.

• Applications for our products include the filter and neutral earthing for MV and HV systems, the dynamic braking of motors and industrial drives and the load testing of batteries and generators. We supply to large contractors, OEMs and end users throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
  
  Job Overview
  
  
• They’re seeking an experienced and proactive Buyer to join their busy procurement team. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering or manufacturing background, be CIPS qualified and possess the technical ability to interpret engineering drawings. You will play a key role in ensuring timely, cost-effective procurement of materials and components while maintaining the highest standards of quality and supplier performance.
  
  Principal Responsibilities
  
  
• Plan and procure materials required for assembly in line with project requirements, while reducing inventory levels and continually reducing costs
  
  
• Ensure parts and materials are bought at the most competitive price and delivered on time for production.
  
  
• Identify new suppliers, agree terms and negotiate supply agreements where appropriate, including discount structures and volume rebates.
  
  
• Build and maintain effective supplier relationships, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.
  
  
• Identify, exploit and monitor opportunities for reduced costs and wastage throughout the purchasing function whilst maintaining and improving product quality and on time delivery.
  
  
• Continually monitor supplier performance and address issues related to quality, cost or delivery.
  
  
• Support continuous improvement initiatives withing the purchasing department.
  
  
• Ensure all relevant ISO9001 procedures are adhered to
  
  
• Ensure quality and performance of ordered materials are in line with required standards
  
  Skills, Qualifications and Experience
  Essential
  
  
• CIPS qualification or equivalent
  
  
• Proven experience as a buyer in a manufacturing / engineering environment.
  
  
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
  
  
• Proficient in ERP / MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
  
  
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  
  
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings and technical documentation.
  
  Desirable
  
  
• Previous experience using EFACS business system