Senior Buyer

SGS; Ellesmere Port; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

SGS, the world's leading testing and certification company, seeks a Senior Buyer in Ellesmere Port. The role focuses on implementing procurement strategies, managing supplier performance, and driving cost savings. Ideal candidates will have over 5 years of experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills.

Benefits

Performance related bonus

Private medical cover

Competitive pension scheme

Generous Annual Leave allowance

Extra day off for birthday

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in procurement, including senior buying roles.
• Proven ability to lead contract negotiations and manage supplier performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of procurement strategy and ensure compliance.
• Drive cost savings and value-for-money through supplier management.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier Management

Data Analysis

Communication

Education

CIPS Level 4 qualification or higher

Tools

Oracle P2P systems

Job description

Company Description

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability.

SGS’s Head Office supports global operations by driving strategy, innovation, and governance across all business lines—ensuring consistent quality, compliance, and performance worldwide.

• Job Title: Senior Buyer
• Job Type: Permanent
• Location: Ellesmere Port
• Hours: 37.5
• Industry: Procurement
  
  

Job Description

We’re looking for an experienced and proactive procurement professional to help deliver cost savings, drive compliance, and support strategic initiatives across the UK and wider SGS group.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead the implementation of SGS’s UK procurement strategy in partnership with global and local teams.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and help shape new, effective procedures.
• Drive cost savings and value-for-money through smart sourcing and supplier management.
• Set up and manage supplier catalogues on Oracle to streamline purchasing and monitor spend.
• Identify, lead, and report on procurement savings opportunities across the business.
• Promote a culture of smart purchasing across all departments.
• Work with internal teams to support supplier projects and negotiate favourable contracts.
• Ensure supplier performance meets agreed KPIs and SLAs.
  
  

Qualifications

What you'll bring

You’re an experienced procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You’re confident working with stakeholders at all levels, negotiating contracts, and finding smart ways to save money while maintaining excellent service. With a keen eye for detail and a proactive mindset, you’re ready to take ownership and drive real impact.

Key Strengths Include

• 5+ years’ experience in procurement, including senior buying roles
• Proven ability to lead contract negotiations and manage supplier performance
• Strong communication skills and confidence working with cross-functional teams
• Comfortable analysing data to inform decisions and track savings
• Able to manage multiple priorities and deliver under pressure
  
  

Bonus If You Also Have

• Knowledge of commercial law and supplier T&Cs
• Experience using Oracle P2P systems
• Background in laboratory procurement (e.g., consumables, CapEx)
• CIPS Level 4 qualification or higher
  
  

Additional Information

At SGS, we believe in rewarding our employees for their hard work and commitment. As part of our team, you would be eligible for:

• Performance related bonus (discretionary and subject to eligibility criteria)
• Private medical cover (subject to eligibility criteria)
• Competitive pension scheme + Life Assurance
• Generous Annual Leave allowance (increasing with service) plus bank holidays
• An additional day off for your birthday
  
  

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.

APPLY NOW for full consideration, if you are selected for an interview, or further consideration, we will be in touch with you directly.