Strategic Buyer

Appointments Personnel; Chichester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Strategic Buyer in Chichester. This role involves leading procurement strategies, managing supplier relationships, and executing market research. The ideal candidate has a degree in a relevant field and experience in manufacturing procurement. The position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development in a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary between £45,000 and £55,000

Collaborative work environment

Opportunities for personal development

Qualifications

• Proven experience in manufacturing procurement and global supply chains.
• Strong background in strategic sourcing and category management.
• Commercially astute with advanced negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute procurement strategies prioritising cost and quality.
• Conduct market research and supplier benchmarking.
• Negotiate complex contracts with suppliers.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Cost reduction

Strategic sourcing

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field

Tools

MRP/ERP systems

Excel

Job description

Strategic Buyer

Are you a commercially savvy procurement professional with experience in manufacturing environments? Do you thrive in a strategic role where your supplier management, negotiation, and sourcing skills can truly make an impact?

This is the perfect opportunity for someone who is looking to take ownership of procurement strategies, work on a global scale, and help shape a high-performing supply chain. You'll be part of an ambitious business where your input is valued, your ideas are welcomed, and your professional growth is supported.

What you will be doing:

Lead and execute procurement strategies that prioritise cost, quality, delivery performance, and risk reduction
Conduct in-depth market research and supplier benchmarking to uncover sourcing opportunities
Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring long-term collaboration and innovation
Oversee full tender processes, including RFPs, bid analysis, and supplier selection
Negotiate complex contracts to secure favourable and sustainable commercial terms
Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to align supplier capabilities with business needs
Implement and monitor supplier KPIs, continuously reviewing performance
Ensure compliance with procurement policies and relevant regulations
Drive continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiatives
About You:

Degree-qualified in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field
Proven experience in manufacturing procurement and managing global supply chains
Strong background in strategic sourcing, category management, and supplier performance evaluation
Commercially astute with advanced negotiation and contract management skills
Confident in interpreting technical drawings and turning them into actionable procurement plans
Highly analytical with excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills – able to influence and collaborate across functions
Proficient in MRP/ERP systems, Excel, and procurement data tools
CIPS qualified or working towards qualification (desirable)
What’s In It for You?

Competitive salary between £45,000 and £55,000 per annum, depending on experience
A collaborative and supportive work environment
Recognition for your contributions and autonomy in your role
Opportunities for personal and professional development within a growing organisation
If you are interested in this Strategic Buyer role and feel you have the necessary skills and experience, we would love to hear from you! Please apply today to be considered for this opportunity.

Strategic Buyer | Location: Ashbourne, Derbyshire |Sector: Procurement & Supply Chain

This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of Appointments Personnel who are acting as an employment Agency.