Buyer

Howett Thorpe; Hart; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A successful manufacturer in Hook is seeking an experienced Buyer to manage supplier relationships and negotiate costs. The role involves overseeing a significant spend, contributing to product development, and ensuring supply reliability. Ideal candidates should have procurement experience within manufacturing and strong negotiation and problem-solving skills. This position offers hybrid working and various benefits, including a performance-related bonus.

Benefits

25 days annual leave, plus bank holiday

Annual performance related bonus

Training opportunities

Enhanced pension scheme

Life Assurance

On-site parking

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a procurement or buying role within manufacturing.
• Ability to manage supplier relationships effectively.
• Skills in negotiating to achieve cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with 7–8 key suppliers across direct and indirect categories.
• Negotiate with suppliers to achieve the lowest overall acquisition cost.
• Take ownership of new product parts from costing through to launch.

Skills

Strong negotiation skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Highly organized

Attention to detail

Job description

Are you an experienced Buyer looking for a role where you can take real ownership of supplier relationships and play a key part in driving value for the business?

Our client, a successful and growing manufacturer based in Hook, is seeking a proactive Buyer to join their dynamic procurement team. This is an excellent opportunity to manage both UK and overseas suppliers, oversee a significant spend across direct and indirect categories, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Buyer – Benefits

The company offers a wealth of benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holiday.
• Annual performance related bonus.
• Hybrid working and early finish on a Friday
• Training opportunities and study support for career development.
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Life Assurance.
• On-site parking.

Buyer – About The Role

Reporting to the Procurement Manager, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of strategic suppliers, negotiating to achieve best value, and ensuring stock and supply levels are maintained. You’ll also play a key role in supplier benchmarking, risk management, and supporting new product development activities. Main responsibilities:

• Manage relationships with 7–8 key suppliers across direct and indirect categories (c. £2.5–£3.5m spend)
• Negotiate with suppliers to achieve the lowest overall acquisition cost
• Monitor and update MRP data (lead times, pricing, terms, etc.)
• Arrange transport and track deliveries to ensure on-time supply
• Lead RFQs and tender processes for new and existing suppliers
• Support sales and operations through supplier engagement and cost-reduction initiatives
• Take ownership of new product parts from costing through to launch
• Work with suppliers on problem-solving, quality issues, and continuous improvement

The successful Buyer will have:

• Previous experience in a procurement or buying role within manufacturing
• Strong negotiation skills, both internally and externally
• Strong problem-solving skills, able to resolve immediate issues and implement long-term solutions
• Highly organised with the ability to prioritise, multi-task, and meet deadlines
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to monitor and check own work for accuracy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to adapt style to suit audience