Senior Buyer

Theo James Recruitment; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established manufacturer is seeking a Senior Buyer in Sunderland. In this role, you will drive procurement strategy, manage supplier relationships, and lead a purchasing team. With a focus on quality and value, you'll play a key role in shaping the future of procurement within the company. Excellent communication and negotiation skills coupled with a degree in Business or Supply Chain are required. Join a dynamic environment that values collaboration and personal growth.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Company pension

Early finish Fridays

Free onsite parking

Employee wellbeing initiatives

Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing or automotive supply chain environment.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines in fast-paced settings.
• Proactive and resilient mindset with a collaborative approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the purchasing function covering direct and indirect materials.
• Drive procurement strategy for cost savings and quality improvements.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Conduct market research and data analysis for supplier performance.
• Support continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives.

Skills

Commercial awareness

Negotiation skills

Supplier management

Data analysis

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Education

Degree in Business or Supply Chain

CIPS qualification

Job description

Job Title: Senior Buyer

Location: Tyne & Wear

Salary: £54,000 - £56,000

Benefits: 25 days holiday + bank holidays, company pension, early finish Fridays, free onsite parking, employee wellbeing initiatives

The Company:

This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established manufacturer supplying high-quality products to a range of global customers. Known for innovation, precision, and reliability, this organisation plays a key role in supporting major OEMs and tiered suppliers within the UK manufacturing sector.

You’ll be joining a forward-thinking business that truly values its people. Collaboration, progression, and pride in what they produce are at the heart of their culture. As part of an ambitious commercial team, you’ll have the chance to shape future procurement strategy and contribute to ongoing growth and success.

Working Hours:

Monday - Friday, full-time (with early finish on Fridays).

Job Description

As the Senior Buyer, you’ll lead the purchasing function, covering both direct and indirect materials and services to meet operational and commercial objectives. Working closely with the Head of Commercial, the Senior Buyer will ensure the business achieves best value, quality, and delivery performance while maintaining strong supplier partnerships.

• Driving procurement strategy to deliver cost savings, efficiency, and quality improvements.
• Managing supplier relationships and ensuring full compliance with business and regulatory requirements.
• Leading and supporting the purchasing team in day-to-day operations.
• Conducting market research, data analysis, and supplier performance reviews.
• Managing tender processes, quotations, cost breakdowns, and supplier onboarding.
• Supporting continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives across the supply chain.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to forecast demand and align purchasing activity with production needs.

This Senior Buyer role will suit someone commercially astute, data-driven, and confident in influencing both suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Skills & Experience

• Degree in Business, Supply Chain, or similar (CIPS qualification desirable).
• Previous experience within a manufacturing or automotive supply chain environment.
• Strong commercial awareness with proven negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and confident analysing and presenting data.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive and resilient mindset with a collaborative approach to teamwork.

Why Should You Apply?

This Senior Buyer opportunity offers the chance to work within a respected, growing organisation that invests in its people and recognises achievement. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping procurement strategy, have genuine autonomy, and see the impact of your work across the entire business.

If you’re an experienced Senior Buyer looking for your next challenge in a supportive and dynamic manufacturing environment—apply today and take your next step forward.