Senior Buyer

Optima UK Inc Ltd; Leicester Forest East; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Optima UK Inc Ltd is seeking a Senior Buyer to lead end-to-end procurement for manufacturing operations in Leicestershire. The role includes mentoring two Junior Buyers and driving supplier performance to meet production schedules.

Based on site in Leicestershire, you will manage purchasing activities, negotiate terms, and align stock with forecasts to optimise costs and ensure timely delivery for international production demands.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior or lead buying role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management and inventory control.
• Experience sourcing mechanical or industrial components is highly desirable.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Leadership experience or readiness to step into a team management role.
• Strong organisational and analytical abilities.
• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily purchasing activities to support production and order fulfilment.
• Manage supplier relationships, including negotiation of pricing, terms, and contracts.
• Ensure materials and components are sourced cost-effectively without compromising quality.
• Align stock levels with production forecasts and business demand.
• Monitor and improve supplier performance, delivery schedules, and lead times.
• Lead, support, and develop two Junior Buyers.
• Work cross-functionally with production, engineering, and logistics teams.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements within the supply chain.

Skills

Senior buying experience

Supply chain management

Negotiation & supplier management

Leadership

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Senior Buyer

Location: Leicestershire (Full-Time, On-Site)

Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 per annum

Hours

7:45am - 17:00pm Mondays - Thursdays

7:45am -12:30pm - Fridays

About the Company

We are a well-established and growing manufacturing business based in Leicestershire, specialising in the design, production, and international export of high-quality industrial machinery. With a strong global presence and a commitment to innovation and operational excellence, we are looking to strengthen our procurement function with the addition of an experienced Senior Buyer.

The Role

As Senior Buyer, you will play a key role in managing and optimising the end-to-end purchasing and supply chain process. You will ensure the timely procurement of materials and components in line with production schedules, maintaining optimal stock levels to support manufacturing output and meet customer demand.

This is a hands-on leadership role, with responsibility for mentoring and managing two Junior Buyers, while also driving supplier performance and cost efficiencies across the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily purchasing activities to support production and order fulfilment
• Manage supplier relationships, including negotiation of pricing, terms, and contracts
• Ensure materials and components are sourced cost-effectively without compromising quality
• Align stock levels with production forecasts and business demand
• Monitor and improve supplier performance, delivery schedules, and lead times
• Lead, support, and develop two Junior Buyers
• Work cross-functionally with production, engineering, and logistics teams
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements within the supply chain

About You

• Proven experience in a senior or lead buying role within a manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of supply chain management and inventory control
• Experience sourcing mechanical or industrial components is highly desirable
• Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills
• Leadership experience or readiness to step into a team management role
• Strong organisational and analytical abilities
• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £45,000 - £55,000
• Opportunity to lead and shape a key function within a growing business
• Exposure to international supply chains and global markets
• Supportive and collaborative working environmentINDPROF

Work Location: In person