Parts Buyer / Parts Advisor

TN United Kingdom; Northampton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based autocentre group is seeking an experienced Parts Buyer to manage vehicle parts procurement across multiple centres. The role involves supplier management, order placement, and cost control, ensuring timely delivery of parts. Join a collaborative environment focused on exceptional customer service and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in parts purchasing within the automotive sector.
• Experience with multi-site procurement operations.

Responsibilities

• Place and manage orders where tier one suppliers are not used.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement procurement best practices.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier Management

Organizational Abilities

Communication

Job description

Parts Buyer / Parts Advisor, Northampton

We are a leading UK-based autocentre group with a network of over thirty centres offering vehicle servicing, MOTs, and repairs. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service and efficient operations while providing a collaborative and supportive environment for all colleagues. We are now seeking an experienced Parts Buyer.

The Parts Buyer will be responsible for vehicle parts procurement across all centres. This includes placing orders (where main supplier cannot be used), managing supplier relationships, negotiating prices, and ensuring each centre has the parts it needs—on time and at the right cost.

About The Role

Key Responsibilities

• Order Management: Place and manage orders where tier one suppliers are not used for all autocentres.
• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and negotiate best pricing, terms, and SLAs.
• Centre Support: Consult with centre managers to understand local requirements, address problems, and resolve parts-related issues or delays.
• Cost Control: Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement procurement best practices across the group.
• Reporting: Collaborate with the finance team to produce regular reports on purchasing trends, costs, usage, and supplier performance.

Key Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in parts purchasing within the automotive sector (autocentre, dealership, motor factors, etc). Experience as a parts counter sales advisor or supervisor is also suitable.
• Negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Excellent organisational abilities.
• Good understanding of stock control and coordination.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and build rapport at all levels.
• Knowledge of automotive components and vehicle servicing parts.
• Experience with multi-site procurement operations.

About The Company

Servicing Made Simple: We provide fixed prices, clear explanations, and great service, all underpinned by a 100% customer satisfaction promise. Our goal is to get customers back on the road quickly and safely.

100% Commitment to Customer Service: Our staff and Customer Care Team are trained to ensure complete satisfaction at every stage.

Manufacturer Approved Parts: We only use parts that meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications, guaranteed not to affect vehicle warranties.

Trained and Qualified Technicians: Our technicians are trained to the highest standards, many from big brand main dealers, passionate about their work.

Additional Information

We are a Which? Trusted Trader, regularly audited to maintain high standards of honesty and customer service. Our customer lounges feature high-speed Wi-Fi, free beverages, a children's play area, and baby change facilities for comfort during wait times. We have a high rate of repeat customers and a Trustpilot score of 4.7, striving for 100% customer satisfaction. We only carry out work authorized by the customer, providing the best advice for vehicle safety and performance.

Closing Date: Friday 13th June, 2025