Buyer

Azenta Life Sciences; England; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A life sciences company based in Wotton, Surrey, is seeking a Buyer to manage the procurement of materials and optimize inventory levels. This role is critical for maintaining supply continuity and supporting manufacturing in a regulated environment. Key responsibilities include sourcing raw materials, ensuring on-time delivery, and negotiating with suppliers. Candidates should possess a relevant Bachelor's degree and experience in purchasing within a production-driven setting.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in purchasing role in a regulated production environment preferred.
• Solid understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes.
• Excellent communication and ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve demand forecasts for production.
• Source and purchase materials in compliance with policies.
• Monitor stock levels to anticipate supply needs.
• Negotiate with suppliers for better terms and prices.
• Maintain accurate purchase orders and ensure timely delivery.
• Lead planning meetings to review schedules and forecasts.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliability.

Skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

APICS certification or equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Buyer is responsible for ensuring the timely procurement of raw materials, components, and consumables, as well as planning production schedules to meet customer demand and inventory targets. This role plays a critical part in maintaining supply continuity, optimizing inventory levels, and supporting manufacturing operations in a regulated life sciences environment.

Based onsite in Wotton, Surrey own transport required due to rural location

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and improve accurate demand forecasts to support production and purchasing plans

• Source and purchase raw materials, components, and indirect supplies in compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements

• Ensure materials and products are available to meet production schedules and customer demand to achieve On Time Delivery (OTD)

• Monitor stock levels and consumption rates to anticipate supply needs, avoid stockouts, and reduce excess inventory

• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings and secure reliable supply.

• Maintain accurate purchase orders and ensure timely delivery of goods

• Lead regular planning meetings to review production schedules, inventory status, and forecast updates.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure quality and reliability and lead Quarterly Business Reviews with key suppliers

• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain process to increase efficiency and responsiveness.

Metrics

• On-Time Delivery to Customer Request Date

• On-Time Supplier Delivery

• At Target Safety Stock

• Inventory Turns

• Revenue Target

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field; APICS certification or equivalent is an advantage

• Proven experience in purchasing role in a production-driven environment (life sciences or similar regulated industry preferred)

• Solid understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes, including procurement, production planning, and inventory management.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and align cross-functional teams

• High attention to detail, problem-solving capability, and a proactive, continuous improvement mindset.