Strategic Purchasing Manager – Engineering & Manufacturing

W Talent; Coventry; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

W Talent in Coventry is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to take ownership of the purchasing function, drive supplier relationships, and secure cost efficiencies across the business.

The role requires strong commercial and negotiation skills, experience in manufacturing environments, and proven ability to lead a purchasing team. This is a full‑time role based in Coventry with a focus on delivering robust supply chains and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Experience in automotive, aerospace or precision engineering.
• Experience managing technical suppliers within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong commercial and negotiation skills with a track record of delivering cost savings.
• Knowledge of supplier quality requirements and approval processes.
• Experience managing or developing a team.
• Confident using ERP/MRP systems.
• Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the purchasing strategy across direct and indirect procurement.
• Source, negotiate and manage supplier relationships, ensuring competitive pricing, quality and delivery.
• Lead commercial negotiations and secure favourable supplier agreements.
• Support new product introductions and ongoing manufacturing requirements.
• Work closely with engineering, production, quality and finance teams.
• Identify supply chain risks and develop effective contingency plans.
• Drive cost savings, supplier performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead and develop the purchasing team.

Skills

Purchasing experience

Supplier management

Cost savings

Team leadership

ERP/MRP

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline

MCIPS (advantage)

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

W Talent in Coventry is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to take ownership of the purchasing function, drive supplier relationships, and secure cost efficiencies across the business.

The role requires strong commercial and negotiation skills, experience in manufacturing environments, and proven ability to lead a purchasing team. This is a full‑time role based in Coventry with a focus on delivering robust supply chains and continuous improvement.