Strategic Buyer: Global Supplier Partnerships & Cost Savings

First Base Employment Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

First Base Employment Ltd is seeking a Strategic Buyer to join an established engineering and manufacturing environment in Poole, Dorset, with a planned start in 2027. This role focuses on owning supplier relationships, developing procurement strategies, and leading commercial negotiations.

The ideal candidate will drive supplier performance, negotiate long-term agreements, and implement cost-reduction initiatives while supporting purchasing operations and sustainability goals.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic procurement and senior purchasing roles.
• Proven supplier relationship management and negotiation capabilities.
• Experience with long-term supplier contracts and cost reduction.
• Knowledge of procurement strategies and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Developing and maintaining relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitoring supplier performance and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Negotiating long‑term supplier agreements and contracts.
• Managing supplier costs, commercial risks and purchasing strategies.
• Conducting supplier performance reviews and improvement meetings.
• Carrying out supplier risk assessments and maintaining approved supplier records.
• Supporting the wider purchasing function, including raising purchase orders and requests for quotations.
• Working with suppliers to improve sustainability and reduce supply chain emissions.

Skills

Strategic buying experience

Supplier relationship management

Negotiation skills

Contract management

Procurement strategy

Cost reduction

Supplier performance monitoring

Supply chain risk management

Aerospace/defence experience

Commercial awareness

Communication skills

Job description

First Base Employment Ltd is seeking a Strategic Buyer to join an established engineering and manufacturing environment in Poole, Dorset, with a planned start in 2027. This role focuses on owning supplier relationships, developing procurement strategies, and leading commercial negotiations.

The ideal candidate will drive supplier performance, negotiate long-term agreements, and implement cost-reduction initiatives while supporting purchasing operations and sustainability goals.