Buyer (Maternity Cover)

Serve Talent; England; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in Norwich is seeking an experienced Project Buyer for a 15-month fixed-term contract. The role requires managing supplier relationships, negotiating costs, and ensuring the smooth delivery of projects. Ideal candidates will have a strong manufacturing background, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in a supportive team atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment is essential.
• Strong communication skills able to liaise effectively at all levels.
• Excellent organizational ability with a proactive approach.

Responsibilities

• Act as the main point of contact for suppliers on commercial matters.
• Negotiate prices and delivery schedules to meet business needs.
• Manage and develop existing supplier relationships.

Skills

Supplier relationship management

Negotiation skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

CIPS Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Overview

Project Buyer 15-Month Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover) — Location: Norwich

Are you a skilled buyer with a background in manufacturing, looking for your next challenge? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation as a Project Buyer on a 15-month fixed-term contract, covering maternity leave.

In this role, you ll play a key part in ensuring the smooth delivery of projects by managing supplier relationships, negotiating costs and lead times, and maintaining a strong and reliable supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Acting as the main point of contact for suppliers on commercial matters.
• Negotiating prices and delivery schedules to meet business needs and stay within budget.
• Managing and developing existing supplier relationships while identifying and evaluating new suppliers.
• Working closely with Engineering and Quality teams to define product and service specifications.
• Investigating and resolving supply issues, including managing non-conforming products and corrective actions.
• Leading and documenting supplier performance reviews.
• Supporting ad-hoc purchasing requests and ensuring all processes align with quality, health & safety, and compliance standards.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment is essential.
• Strong communication skills able to liaise effectively at all levels internally and externally.
• Excellent organisational ability with a proactive, detail-focused approach.
• Confidence to negotiate, influence, and manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• A collaborative team player who also thrives working independently.

Desirable

• CIPS Diploma or equivalent professional qualification.
• Knowledge of MOD contractual requirements and GS3001 standards.

Why apply?

This is a great opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in a role where your expertise in procurement and supplier management will directly support successful outcomes. You’ll be joining a supportive team environment that values initiative, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Sound like something for you? Hit apply or contact Jason direct on (phone number removed) for more information.