Lead Buyer

Getlink; Peene; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading transportation infrastructure company in the UK is seeking a knowledgeable Lead Buyer to shape strategic procurement for its operations. In this hands-on leadership role, you will guide a team while managing procurement activities for contracts and projects, optimizing tendering processes. The ideal candidate will have experience in procurement, strong contract law understanding, and excellent negotiation skills. You will lead by example in driving compliance and innovation within the procurement function.

Qualifications

• Experience in technical or commercial services procurement, ideally within rail or site maintenance.
• Strong understanding of procurement regulations.
• Ability to travel as required for the role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the UK Procurement team in procurement activities.
• Drive tender processes and secure agreements.
• Monitor supplier performance and manage contract variations.

Skills

Technical or commercial services procurement

Strong understanding of contract law

Excellent communication and negotiation skills

Fluent in English

Education

A-Level or equivalent; degree desirable

Tools

SAP

MS Office applications

Job description

As Lead Buyer, you will take the lead in shaping strategic procurement for Eurotunnel’s UK operations. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you’ll guide a talented team, optimise tendering processes, and deliver cost‑effective solutions that support major infrastructure and operational projects. Your expertise will ensure compliance, drive innovation, and create value across multi‑category spend areas.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the UK Procurement team, fostering a culture of ethics, safety, and sustainability.
• Draft, agree and set up contracts.
• Plan and manage procurement activities for recurring contracts and high‑profile projects.
• Drive tender processes (RFQ/RFP), developing strategies that achieve the best technical, financial, and contractual outcomes.
• Negotiate and secure agreements that deliver quality and value for the business.
• Monitor supplier performance, resolve disputes, and manage contract variations effectively.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Report on progress, performance, and key issues to the Procurement Manager.
• Champion compliance with purchasing, financial, and regulatory standards.
• Leads by example, providing others with clear direction, in line with the Getlink Leadership model.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrable experience in technical or commercial services procurement, or equivalent skills and knowledge, ideally within rail or site maintenance.
• Strong understanding of contract law and procurement regulations.
• Educated to A-Level or equivalent; a degree is desirable.
• Skilled in SAP (or similar systems) and proficient in MS Office applications.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Fluent in English; French language skills are a plus but not essential.
• Ability to travel as required for the role (UK Driving Licence and Passport preferred).

Application Deadline

Submit your application online by Monday 5th January 2026.

Early Closure Notice

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Immigration Requirements

From 1 January 2021, non‑British and non‑Irish nationals who do not already hold a UK immigration status will be required to obtain a visa in order to be able to work in the UK. Before applying for this role, please ensure that you are permitted to apply. For further information, please visit the UK Visa and Immigration Website.