3CR Lead Buyer

Johnson Matthey Plc; Royston; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global sustainable technology company in Royston is seeking a 3CR Lead Buyer for a 12-month contract. This role involves strategic sourcing and procurement to support the commissioning of a new facility, requiring strong procurement experience and collaboration with technical teams. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of industrial equipment and supplier management, with a focus on achieving cost-effectiveness and compliance. The company promotes a hybrid work environment and offers various employee benefits.

Benefits

Retirement savings

Share plans

Medical plans

Fitness discounts

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of procurement experience in manufacturing environments.
• Strong technical understanding of industrial equipment and systems.
• Experience with cost breakdown structures and technical RFQs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies for 3CR plant.
• Negotiate supplier agreements to ensure best value.
• Work closely with various internal teams to align procurement strategies.

Skills

Procurement experience

Supplier management

Technical understanding of industrial equipment

Analytical skills

Contract negotiation

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job title: 3CR Lead Buyer
Location: Royston

12 months Fixed – Term Contract

World-changing careers, enabled by Johnson Matthey.
With over 200 years of innovation, join us in accelerating the transition to net-zero.

As the Lead Buyer for the 3CR (Third Century Refining) Facility, you will play a key role in the strategic and tactical procurement of goods and services to support the completion and commissioning of our new facility at the PGMS Royston site. You will work closely with stakeholders to establish requirements, lead vendor selection, contract negotiations, and order management to ensure timely, cost-effective, and compliant procurement.
This role requires strong technical knowledge of plant engineering, proven supplier management capabilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple internal stakeholders.

The role:

As a 3CR Lead Buyer, you will help drive our goals by:
• Strategic and Tactical Sourcing & Procurement:
Develop and implement procurement strategies for 3CR plant in all required categories, particularly focused on MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Operations), spare parts, and engineering services.
• Supplier & Contract Management:
Negotiate supplier agreements, ensuring best value while meeting operational and sustainability objectives.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
Work closely with engineering, maintenance, production, and finance teams to align procurement strategies with the business needs.
Support the 3CR project by sourcing key equipment and materials in a timely and cost-effective manner to meet the commissioning deadlines.
Assist in budget planning and cost control for 3CR procurement activities.
• Process & Cost Optimization:
Implement best practices in supplier risk management and contract negotiation.

Key skills that will help you succeed in this role:

• Minimum of 7 years of procurement experience in manufacturing and capital project environments (e.g., machinery and plant manufacturing, steel production/fabrication, heavy industries, engineering, and industrial equipment refurbishment projects).
• Strong technical understanding of industrial equipment and system installation, including mechanical, electrical, and automation systems—both standard and bespoke.
• Experience with cost breakdown structures and technical RFQs.
• In-depth knowledge of engineering materials, MRO procurement, and capital projects.
• Proven track record in supplier relationship management.
• Familiarity with quality standards, tools, and processes.
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on cost savings and supply chain efficiency.
• Demonstrated success in leading and conducting complex contract negotiations across technical, commercial, and legal domains.
• Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Coupa is a plus) and Microsoft Office.
• A proactive self-starter who communicates clearly, responds quickly, and brings solutions—in a fast-paced environment.

Even if you only match some of the skills, we’d love to hear from you to discuss further!

What we offer:

We make sure salaries are fair, competitive and aligned to individual roles, experience and responsibilities. We are also supportive of hybrid and flexible working and where applicable, offer life, medical and other benefits that support our employees’ financial and physical wellbeing, such as:
• Retirement savings
• Share plans
• Saving accounts
• House saving funds
• Life and disability insurance
• Commuter allowances and loans
• Medical plans / health assessments
• Fitness discounts

Ready to make a meaningful impact on your career and the environment? Join us and help shape a sustainable future while advancing your career!
At JM, inclusivity is central to our values. We create an environment where everyone can thrive, embracing diverse perspectives to tackle challenges and ensure all colleagues feel valued and connected.

For any queries or accessibility requirements, please contact [e-mail]. We will work with you to make suitable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. All conversations are confidential, and your feedback is welcome to help us provide an accessible and positive recruitment experience.
Closing date for applications: This job advertisement will be posted for a minimum of 2 weeks, early application is advised.

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Johnson Matthey Plc is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief.

If you are already a Johnson Matthey Employee, please visit the internal careers site to apply: Find Jobs - Workday ( myworkday.com )

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all. If you need support with your application email [e-mail].

For further information on diversity, inclusion and belonging at JM click here to find out more.

Are you passionate about sustainable technology solutions, transforming energy, and reducing carbon emissions? At Johnson Matthey, our world-changing careers empower talented individuals to collaborate on impactful projects aimed at decarbonising modern life. Join us in catalysing the net-zero transition for a cleaner, brighter future.