Aviation Buyer & Supply Chain Specialist

Draken Europe; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension matching up to 12%

Bonus incentives

Discounted PMI

Electric car scheme

Tech vouchers

Wellbeing programmes

Job summary

Draken in the United Kingdom is seeking a proactive Buyer to support all aspects of Purchasing and Supply Chain, delivering advanced technology solutions across a diverse fleet of aircraft for customers worldwide.

Reporting to the Senior Buyer, you will manage RFQs, purchase orders, supplier expediting and inventory planning, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to ensure timely delivery and value.

Qualifications

• Two to three years’ demonstrable experience within purchasing, procurement or a comparable role.
• Experience managing priorities, deadlines and multiple demands.
• Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build productive relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
• Confident negotiation and problem-solving ability, with a positive approach to resolving issues.
• Proficient administration, numerical and organisational skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Previous experience working with ERP systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, with working knowledge of PowerPoint and Outlook.
• A collaborative team player who is approachable, open, honest and willing to take responsibility.
• Enthusiastic and assertive, with the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• A continuous-improvement mindset and willingness to drive positive change.
• CIPS Level 4 qualification or currently working towards it.
• Previous aerospace or aviation industry experience.
• Experience procuring aircraft spares, raw materials and chemicals.

Responsibilities

• Generate and manage requests for quotation, requests to order, purchase orders and repair orders, ensuring accuracy and timely completion.
• Proactively expedite outstanding quotations, purchase orders and repair orders to secure supplier commitments and achieve delivery schedules.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to understand operational priorities and align procurement activity with business objectives.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels through demand planning, economic order quantity management and effective procurement practices.
• Produce, analyse and maintain shortage reports and open order book reports to support supply chain visibility and business continuity.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams and external suppliers, resolving issues relating to orders, technical support, production requirements, invoicing and quality.
• Lead regular supplier performance reviews, both remotely and on-site, driving accountability, continuous improvement and stronger performance.
• Represent Procurement at daily operational review meetings and deputise for colleagues or management when required.
• Take ownership of Aircraft on Ground requirements during working hours, responding quickly to urgent operational needs.
• Maintain accurate procurement records through regular system housekeeping within Aerotrac and the Service Desk.
• Initiate and manage internal workshop projects for unserviceable rotable components, gathering and assessing technical records, service history, utilisation data and work scope requirements.
• Ensure procurement activity complies with company policies, procedures and regulatory requirements, with safety and a Just Culture approach embedded in decision-making.

Skills

Purchasing experience

ERP systems

Excel

Communication skills

Negotiation

Education

CIPS Level 4

Tools

Aerotrac

PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

Draken in the United Kingdom is seeking a proactive Buyer to support all aspects of Purchasing and Supply Chain, delivering advanced technology solutions across a diverse fleet of aircraft for customers worldwide.

Reporting to the Senior Buyer, you will manage RFQs, purchase orders, supplier expediting and inventory planning, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to ensure timely delivery and value.