Senior Strategic Buyer - Hydraulic Systems

RHL; Stafford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the automotive industry seeks a Senior Strategic Buyer to oversee procurement for hydraulic systems. In this permanent position, you will collaborate with engineering and supplier teams to enhance supply chain efficiencies and ensure top-quality sourcing. The role offers a competitive salary and numerous benefits, including a relocation package.

Benefits

Holiday

Pension

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Life insurance

Relocation package provided

Qualifications

• Proven experience in strategic procurement within the automotive industry.
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems and fluid power technologies.
• Ability to read technical drawings/specs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for hydraulic systems.
• Source and manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers.
• Lead commercial negotiations and secure long-term agreements.

Skills

Strategic procurement

Contract negotiation

Supplier performance management

Analytical skills

Communication with engineering stakeholders

Education

Degree in Engineering, Procurement, or Business

CIPS or equivalent professional qualification

Job description

Senior Strategic Buyer - Hydraulic Systems

Location: Staffordshire
Industry: Automotive
Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Competitive £45-55k dependent on experience
Benefits: Holiday, Pension, Dental, Health, Life Insurance
Other: Relocation package provided

About the Role

We're seeking an experienced Senior Strategic Buyer to lead the procurement of hydraulic systems and components for cutting-edge automotive applications. From steering systems to brake hydraulics and suspension technologies, your expertise will be key to ensuring robust, cost-effective supply chains that support vehicle platforms globally.
You'll work closely with engineering, quality, and supplier development teams to deliver reliable sourcing solutions that meet the demands of vehicle performance, safety, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for hydraulic systems, including pumps, valves, actuators, hoses, reservoirs, fittings, and control units.
• Source and manage relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, ensuring optimal performance in cost, quality, innovation, and delivery.
• Lead commercial negotiations and secure long-term agreements to support program time lines and budgets.
• Partner with engineering and product development teams to align procurement with technical specifications and launch schedules.
• Evaluate market conditions, emerging technologies, and supplier capabilities to inform sourcing decisions.
• Monitor and mitigate supply chain risks while identifying cost-saving opportunities and value engineering initiatives.
• Drive supplier development, compliance, and continuous improvement in collaboration with quality and operations.

About You

• Proven experience in a strategic procurement role within the automotive industry, with specific knowledge of hydraulic systems and components.
• Strong understanding of fluid power technologies and the supply base for hydraulics.
• Skilled in contract negotiation, cost modelling, and supplier performance management.
• Ability to read technical drawings/specs and effectively communicate with engineering stakeholders.
• Analytical, commercially minded, and confident in managing complex supply chains.
• Degree in Engineering, Procurement, or Business preferred.
• CIPS or equivalent professional qualification is advantageous.

Why Join?

• Influence the development of high-performance hydraulic systems in cutting-edge vehicles.
• Work in a fast-paced, global environment with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Competitive salary, bonus scheme, hybrid working, and career progression opportunities.
• Collaborate with a cross-functional team shaping the future of engineering.