Operational Buyer

卡慢; Fareham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a proactive Operational Buyer to join their procurement team in Fareham. This role involves ensuring the smooth flow of materials for production, maintaining optimal inventory levels, and building strong supplier relationships. The ideal candidate will bring proven procurement experience, strong negotiation skills, and a collaborative spirit to drive cost savings and efficiency. Join a company that values innovation, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance, and take the next step in your career with exciting growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven procurement experience in manufacturing or electrical assembly.
• Strong negotiation skills to drive cost savings and value.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with production planners to develop procurement plans.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers for favorable agreements.

Skills

Procurement Experience

Negotiation Skills

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Data Analysis

ERP Systems Knowledge

Understanding of Electrical Components

Supply Chain Management Certification

Education

Procurement or Supply Chain Management Certification

Tools

ERP Systems

Procurement Software

Job description

Introduction

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing rapidly, offering numerous opportunities for personal fulfilment and career advancement. We currently employ over 600 people across eight UK sites, with specialisations including software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

As part of the global Saab AB, Saab UK combines the innovative spirit of a start-up with the resources and expertise of a larger corporation. Globally, Saab employs over 24,000 people with operations on every continent. We collaborate with UK customers and industry to deliver innovative solutions to complex challenges and invest 23% of our annual revenue into research and development, working with industry and academia.

Saab offers our employees growth and advancement opportunities, embraces diversity, and is committed to providing a workplace where individuals can thrive professionally. We also value a healthy work-life balance to support our staff's overall well-being.

The Role

This role is part of our Sensor Systems Business Unit in Fareham. We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Operational Buyer to join our procurement team. The Operational Buyer will ensure the smooth flow of materials required for production, maintain optimal inventory levels, and build strong relationships with suppliers. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of procurement processes, excellent negotiation skills, and thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Procurement Planning:
   • Collaborate with production planners and stakeholders to develop procurement plans aligned with production schedules and inventory targets.
   • Monitor inventory levels of raw materials and components, initiating purchase orders to maintain optimal stock levels while minimizing excess inventory.
2. Supplier Management:
   • Identify potential suppliers and evaluate their capabilities, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
   • Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to secure favorable agreements that meet quality and delivery standards.
   • Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery and resolve issues promptly.
3. Purchase Order Processing:
   • Generate purchase orders accurately and efficiently, including all necessary information.
   • Monitor order status, track deliveries, and address discrepancies or delays to prevent production disruptions.
4. Continuous Improvement:
   • Identify opportunities to streamline procurement processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency through data analysis and collaboration.
   • Implement best practices and leverage technology to optimize procurement operations and inventory management.
5. Compliance and Risk Management:
   • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
   • Assess and mitigate risks related to supplier performance, market fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions.

Qualifications and Skills

1. Proven procurement experience, preferably in manufacturing or electrical assembly environments.
2. Strong negotiation skills to drive cost savings and value-added opportunities.
3. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
4. Analytical mindset with proficiency in data analysis and problem-solving.
5. Knowledge of ERP systems and procurement software is preferred.
6. Understanding of electrical components and manufacturing processes is a plus.
7. Procurement or supply chain management certification (e.g., CPSM, CSCP) is desirable.

By submitting an application to Saab UK, you consent to workforce screening activities, including but not limited to: security checks, reference verification, and verification of working rights. Preferred candidates may undergo a security interview.