Strategic Buyer in Reading

Solutions Driven is looking for an Strategic Buyer in Reading

Job description

Solutions Driven is hiring on behalf of our client, who is a manufacturer in the aerospace and high-tech electronics sector. This role is based near Reading, England, with a Hybrid working mode (3 days onsite).


Overall

This role is critical to our success, acting as a pivotal link between the early program development, bid proposals, and the strategic establishment of a robust, competitive, and reliable supply chain. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of strategic sourcing principles, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams to achieve optimal outcomes for complex programs.


Main Duties:

Procurement Bid & Proposal Support:

  • Act as the primary procurement point of contact for new business pursuits, bid proposals, and strategic procurement initiatives.
  • Provide early supply chain intelligence, including market analysis, supplier capabilities, and long-lead item identification, to support "make vs. Buy" decisions.
  • Develop comprehensive cost estimates for materials and services, leveraging market data, historical performance, and supplier insights.
  • Lead and participate in strategic supplier engagements during the bid phase, including RFQ development, proposal evaluation, and preliminary negotiations to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms.
  • Identify and mitigate supply chain risks associated with new programs, including single-source dependencies, geopolitical factors, and technical challenges.
  • Contribute to the development of winning bid strategies by identifying opportunities for cost reduction, innovation, and supply chain optimization.
  • Ensure compliance with all internal procurement policies, government regulations, and customer flow-down requirements during the bid process.


Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management for Programs

  • Translate program requirements into strategic sourcing plans, defining the optimal supply chain for new and existing products.
  • Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers that align with the client’s strategic objectives and program needs.
  • Make use of category strategies for assigned commodities, focusing on total cost of ownership (TCO), quality, delivery, and technology alignment.
  • Lead complex contract negotiations with suppliers, establishing long-term agreements, pricing structures, and performance metrics.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the supply base, including supplier performance management, risk mitigation, and cost reduction opportunities throughout the program lifecycle.
  • Collaborate closely with Engineering, Program Management, Quality, and Operations to ensure seamless material flow and support program execution.
  • Proactively monitor supplier performance against established KPIs, address issues, and implement corrective actions as needed.


General Procurement Responsibilities

  • Maintain accurate procurement data within ERP systems (e.g., SAP), including supplier information, pricing, and contract details.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and supply market dynamics to inform sourcing strategies.
  • Mentor and provide guidance to less experienced buyers as required.
  • Participate in cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and tools.


Education/Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field [e.g., Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Marketing, or a related field].
  • Mid-Level: 5+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or a related supply chain role.


Special Qualifications

  • Desirable- Full member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

Extra information

Status
Open
Education Level
Secondary School
Location
Reading
Type of Contract
Part-time jobs
Published at
09-10-2025
Full UK/EU driving license preferred
No
Car Preferred
No
Must be eligible to work in the EU
No
Cover Letter Required
No
Languages
English

Reading | Part-time jobs | Secondary School

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