Strategic Purchasing Manager

Terry Parris Associates; Hailsham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist technical manufacturing firm is seeking a Strategic Purchasing Manager in Hailsham, East Sussex. This permanent role involves managing procurement activities, negotiating with suppliers, and optimizing costs. Candidates must have a strong engineering background and previous experience in procurement. The competitive salary ranges from £45K to £55K, with benefits including private health insurance and generous holiday entitlement. Note: This position is on-site only.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Private health insurance

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Qualifications

• Proven engineering background.
• Previous experience as a Technical Buyer or in a similar procurement role within a technical manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of components, materials, and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the end-to-end procurement process, including specification, cost analysis, ordering, quality control, and supplier management.
• Source parts globally and negotiate favourable terms with suppliers.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships worldwide.
• Develop supplier performance metrics to track quality, delivery, and cost targets.

Skills

Engineering background

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Supplier management

Job description

Overview

Location: Hailsham, East Sussex • Job Type: Permanent • Start Date: Immediate • Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week • Holiday Entitlement: 25 days + Bank Holidays • Salary: £45 - £55K + Private Health Insurance

Are you an experienced procurement professional with a strong technical background? We are looking for a Strategic Purchasing Manager to take full ownership of procurement activities within a specialist technical manufacturing environment. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives on negotiation, supplier management, and driving value through global sourcing strategies.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the end-to-end procurement process, including specification, cost analysis, ordering, quality control, and supplier management.
• Interpret and understand engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Support re-engineering activities to deliver cost and value improvements.
• Source parts globally and negotiate favourable terms with suppliers.
• Manage lead times, production schedules, and ensure on-time delivery.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships worldwide.
• Develop supplier performance metrics to track quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Resolve invoice queries to ensure smooth financial transactions.
• Optimise costs while maintaining product quality standards.

Skills & Experience

• Proven engineering background.
• Previous experience as a Technical Buyer or in a similar procurement role within a technical manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of components, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and deliver results under pressure.
• Full UK driving licence, with flexibility for occasional UK and overseas travel.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Private health insurance
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays

This Strategic Purchasing Manager position is based in Hailsham, East Sussex. Please note this role cannot be carried out remotely.

If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity as a Strategic Purchasing Manager, we'd love to hear from you