Purchasing Manager – Precision Engineering

1492 Ltd.; Bolton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading precision engineering SME is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to oversee its procurement function. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record in cost optimization within regulated environments, contributing to strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier management.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in procurement leadership.
• Strong commercial and negotiation skills.
• Track record in cost optimisation and managing regulated supply chains.

Responsibilities

• Lead direct and indirect procurement across a technical supply base.
• Manage global supplier relationships and ensure compliance.
• Oversee single-source critical suppliers and build contingency strategies.

Skills

Cost optimisation

Global sourcing

Commercial negotiation

Team leadership

Risk mitigation

Education

Degree in Business

Degree in Engineering

Degree in Supply Chain Management

Professional certification (CIPS or equivalent)

Tools

ERP systems

Digital procurement platforms

Job description

Purchasing Manager – Precision Engineering (SME)

£45-55k

Location: Bolton

A leading precision engineering SME, supplying critical components into global markets including aerospace, defence, oil & gas, power generation, automotive, and marine, is looking for an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead its procurement function.

With a strong people-first culture, we invest heavily in training, innovation, and world-class facilities to support long-term growth and excellence. This is a key leadership role driving performance, cost-down initiatives, and strategic sourcing in a dynamic and highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead direct and indirect procurement across a complex, technical supply base
• Deliver cost-saving and value-engineering initiatives while maintaining world-class quality
• Manage global supplier relationships and ensure compliance with international standards
• Lead, develop, and mentor a small procurement team
• Oversee single-source critical suppliers and build robust contingency strategies
• Contribute to digital transformation within the procurement function
• Work closely with quality and engineering teams to ensure sourcing aligns with stringent technical specs

About You:

• 5+ years’ experience in procurement leadership, ideally within precision manufacturing or engineering
• Track record of cost optimisation, global sourcing, and managing regulated supply chains
• Strong commercial and negotiation skills with an eye for risk mitigation
• Excellent team leadership skills with the ability to foster a collaborative and high-performance culture
• Experience with ERP systems and digital procurement platforms
• Understanding of ISO 9001 / AS 9100 or similar regulated standards

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in Business, Engineering, or Supply Chain Management
• Professional certification (CIPS or equivalent) is advantageous

Why Join Us?

We’re an established SME with a forward-thinking approach. Our culture is grounded in continuous improvement, staff development, and operational excellence. You’ll have the autonomy to shape the procurement strategy while making a tangible impact on the future of our business.

About 1492 Search

In a nutshell – We discover great people! Created with the belief that the process is just as necessary as the opportunity, we decided there was a better recruitment method. Working solely in the manufacturing and engineering industry, we work on retained projects to provide accountability for every hire we make with you. We connect candidates and hiring managers, provide in-depth project management plans and advise through up to date market research. No two hires are the same, and that’s why each project is adapted to your needs. We aim to take the stress out of the hiring process and focus on the job at hand!

We aim to reply to all applications, successful or not, within 10 working days of applying for the role. If you are not happy with the service, please feel free to give us a call or drop us an email.

1492 Ltd and its clients promote a policy of equal opportunities. Our policy is to treat job applicants and employees in the same way regardless of age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, religion, colour or disability.

Tagged as: as 9100, cost optimisation, ERP systems, global sourcing, ISO 9001, procurement