Buyer

SF Recruitment; Heathfield; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Buyer for a 6-month contract in Newton Abbot. This role requires expertise in operational purchasing, ensuring timely material and service delivery, and managing supplier relationships. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in purchasing within manufacturing, excellent negotiation skills, and proficiency in MRP/ERP systems.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in purchasing or supply-chain roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Raise and manage purchase orders to ensure timely delivery.
• Expedite and track deliveries, resolving supply issues.
• Maintain stock levels using MRP/ERP planning tools.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Supplier relationship management

Numerical accuracy

Problem-solving

Tools

MRP systems

ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, SAGE)

Job description

Buyer - 6M Contract
SF Recruitment are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Buyer to take ownership of operational purchasing activities within a busy production environment in Newton Abbot. This role ensures that materials, components, and services are sourced in line with cost, quality and delivery requirements, supporting uninterrupted manufacturing operations. Role is a 6 month contract position

Key Duties (Summarised)

• Raise and manage purchase orders to ensure materials, components and services are delivered on time.
• Expedite and track deliveries, resolving any delays or supply issues quickly to protect production.
• Maintain stock levels using MRP/ERP planning tools, preventing shortages and excess inventory.
• Liaise with suppliers daily to confirm pricing, lead times and order status; escalate risks when necessary.
• Support production and planning teams with up-to-date information on material availability and priorities.
• Manage supplier performance, address quality or delivery problems and assist with corrective actions.
• Source alternatives or short-term solutions when materials are delayed or unavailable.
• Maintain accurate purchasing data, including delivery dates, pricing, supplier records and system updates.
• Ensure compliance with company purchasing processes and support continuous improvement.

Duties

• Proven experience in purchasing or supply-chain roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, SAGE, Epicor, etc.).
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier-relationship skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to tight deadlines.
• Strong numerical accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proactive problem solver with a hands‑on, operational approach