Strategic Buyer

Introduction

Saab UK is a British company that is part of Saab Group's global high-technology operations. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space and civil security. In the UK, we bring together the best of Swedish and British innovation and engineering to provide our customers with products and solutions that push boundaries for what is considered technically possible. Our mission is to help our customers to keep people and society safe. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

As part of the global entity Saab AB, Saab UK combines the innovative spirit of a start-up with the resources and expertise of a larger corporation. Globally, Saab employs over 24,000 people, with operations on every continent. Our partnerships with UK customers and industry mean we are able to deliver innovative solutions to complex challenges, anticipating the threats of tomorrow. We invest 23% of our annual revenue into research and development, collaborating with a range of partners including industry and academia.

Saab is a company that offers our employees plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing a workplace where individuals can thrive professionally, paving the way for future progression. We also recognise the need for a healthy work-life balance to ensure our staff have the chance to live a fulfilling life beyond the workplace.

Role Overview:

The Strategic Buyer plays a crucial role in an electrical assembly manufacturing company operating in the defence industry. Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, this role is responsible for strategic procurement activities, The Strategic Buyer collaborates with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of high-quality materials and components, while also driving supplier relationship management and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Procurement:

Develop and execute sourcing strategies for machined/fabricated components, PCBAs and other electrical/mechanical componenets, considering quality, cost, and delivery requirements.

Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, conducting assessments and negotiations to establish favourable terms and agreements.

Collaborate with engineering and design teams to support new product development and technology roadmaps through effective sourcing strategies.

Stay updated with market trends, industry regulations, and emerging technologies

Supplier Relationship Management:

Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, fostering collaboration, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Conduct regular supplier performance evaluations and provide feedback to suppliers to ensure adherence to quality, delivery, and cost targets.

Collaborate with suppliers to identify opportunities for cost reduction, value engineering, and supplier-driven innovation.

Resolve any supplier-related issues or disputes, working closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to achieve timely resolutions.

Cost Management and Negotiation:

Conduct cost analysis and market assessments to identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigate price increases.

Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to secure competitive pricing and favourable agreements.

Drive cost reduction initiatives through value engineering, alternate sourcing, and process optimization.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as Engineering and Finance, to establish cost targets and monitor cost-saving initiatives.

Supply Chain Optimisation:

Work closely with production planning, inventory management, and logistics teams to ensure material availability and optimize supply chain efficiency.

Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify opportunities for lead time reduction, inventory optimization, and supply chain risk mitigation.

Implement and maintain effective systems and processes for demand forecasting, materials planning, and supplier performance tracking.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement processes, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce cycle times.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Proven experience as a Strategic Buyer or Purchasing professional in the defence industry, with a focus on PCBs, PCAs, and machined/fabricated components.

Strong knowledge of the procurement process, strategic sourcing methodologies, and supplier management.

Familiarity with defence industry regulations, standards, and quality requirements.

Excellent negotiation and communication skills to interact effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Analytical mindset with the ability to conduct cost analysis, market assessments, and supplier evaluations.

Proficiency in using procurement and ERP systems for sourcing, purchasing, and data analysis.

Strong project management and organisational skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.

Ability to work independently, take initiative, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

By submitting an application to Saab UK you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities that may include but are not limited to: Baseline Personnel Security checks, National Security Vetting, reference checks, verification of working rights and in all circumstances preferred candidates will be placed through a security interview