Senior Buyer

A5 Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to optimize purchasing for its operations. The role involves developing buying strategies, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring optimal stock levels. Candidates should have proven experience in purchasing, strong negotiation and analytical skills, as well as proficiency with Microsoft Office. This position offers a competitive salary and a four-day working week.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Buyer or in a similar purchasing role.
• Strong negotiation and analytical skills.
• Good knowledge of market research and procurement best practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver effective buying strategies.
• Identify, assess and negotiate with suppliers to achieve best terms.
• Maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure quality, delivery, and compliance.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Market research

Microsoft Office proficiency

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Tools

SpendMap

CRM systems

SAP systems

Job description

Pay: GBP40,000-GBP45,000 per year

Job Description:

4 day working week Mon to Thursday / 40 hours

Summary

We are looking for an experienced Senior Buyer to source, negotiate and purchase goods and services required for our business operations. The role focuses on securing high-quality supplies at the best value while maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver effective buying strategies.
• Identify, assess and negotiate with suppliers to achieve best terms.
• Maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure quality, delivery and compliance.
• Monitor stock levels and process purchase orders accurately.
• Review and resolve any issues with pricing, quality or delivery.
• Research market trends and attend relevant trade events.
• Support cost‑saving initiatives and report on key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Work closely with other departments to align purchasing with business needs.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as a Buyer or in a similar purchasing role.
• Strong negotiation and analytical skills.
• Good knowledge of market research and procurement best practice.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with purchasing systems (e.g. SpendMap) an advantage.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Experience with CRM or SAP systems is desirable but not essential.