Senior Buyer

Spirit AeroSystems; Belfast; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Belfast is seeking a Senior Buyer to join their Strategic Sourcing Team. Responsibilities include negotiating supplier contracts, preparing requests for proposals, and identifying cost optimisation opportunities. Candidates should have an HNC in a business-related subject and at least 2 years of relevant experience in sourcing or procurement. This role offers competitive pay and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

36 hour working week (half day Friday)

Generous holidays

Flexible schedules

Defined Contribution Pension Scheme

Death in service payment

Company occupational sick scheme

On site Occupational Health Department

Employee Assistance Program

Professional development and growth

Coaching and mentoring

Free car parking

Enhanced maternity pay

Qualifications

• Minimum of an HNC in a business related subject or relevant professional qualification.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience within a Sourcing or Procurement role.
• Solid IT skills and knowledge of ERP/MRP systems required.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate and control supplier contracts for continuity.
• Prepare and issue requests for proposals.
• Identify cost optimisation opportunities.

Education

HNC in a business related subject or relevant professional qualification (e.g. CPIM, CIPS)

Minimum of 2 years relevant experience within a Sourcing or Procurement role

Solid IT skills, knowledge of ERP/MRP systems

Indirect Procurement experience (desirable)

Job description

Overview

STRATEGIC SOURCING - SENIOR BUYERS

£39,900 rising to £44,000

At Spirit, we don't just build aircraft structures - we build the future of aviation. At Northern Ireland's largest aerospace manufacturer, our highly skilled professionals work at the cutting edge of design, manufacturing, integration and after-market support. With world-class facilities spanning over three million square feet across six locations, we deliver advanced aerostructures - including wings, fuselages, and engine nacelles - for global leaders like Bombardier, Airbus and Rolls-Royce. Innovation is at the heart of everything we do. Our Belfast operation is a recognised centre of excellence for advanced materials and ultra-light structures, including our unique composites capabilities. Joining Spirit AeroSystems means being part of an industry leader that values talent, fosters innovation, and offers exceptional career growth.

These opportunities, based at our Belfast site, offer:

• 36 hour working week (half day Friday)
• Generous holidays
• Range of flexible schedules
• Defined Contribution Pension Scheme
• Death in service payment
• Company occupational sick scheme
• On site Occupational Health Department
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development and growth
• Coaching and mentoring
• Opportunity for advancement
• Free car parking
• Enhanced maternity pay

We offer an exciting opportunity to join our Strategic Sourcing Team and be responsible for performing sourcing, commercial and contractual activities focusing on price, contract terms and conditions, quality and technical specifications across a number of commodities.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate, administrate and control supplier contracts to ensure continuity of contractual cover.
• Prepare and issue requests for request for proposals to supply base.
• Identify and realise cost optimisation opportunities and support sites /business units with appropriate sourcing strategies.
• Manage the application of contractual remedies against breaches.
• Support the development of new sources of supply and establish strategic alliances.
• Maintain all Sourcing related systems to the highest levels of data accuracy.
• Commercial liaison including resolution of claims.
• Cost management.

Qualifications

• Candidate Requirements:
• It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that sufficient detail is provided on the application form to demonstrate how the applicant meets essential job criteria, as this alone will be used for vetting purposes.
• Candidates must have a minimum of an HNC in a business related subject or relevant professional qualification (e.g. CPIM, CIPS) and a minimum of 2 years\' relevant experience within a Sourcing or Procurement role.
• Candidates with lesser qualifications but with a minimum of 3 years' relevant experience will also be considered.
• Candidates must have solid IT skills and be able to demonstrate knowledge and experience of ERP/MRP systems.
• Indirect Procurement experience is desirable.

Completed applications must be submitted by 4PM Monday 15th September 2025

We employ people from all sections of the community and are committed to the appointment of the best candidate based upon the merit principle alone. In pursuit of our equal opportunities programme, we would particularly welcome more applications from Catholics and females, as these groups are currently under-represented in our workforce.