Junior Buyer

On behalf of our client, a leading Aerospace manufacturing company, we are seeking a highly motivated Junior Buyer to join their team in Congleton. Reporting to the Supply Chain Manager, this role is responsible for managing the procurement of indirect categories, ensuring cost-effective purchasing strategies, and maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the procurement of indirect categories such as office goods, consumables, hire contracts, services, and utilities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure value, compliance, and performance.
• Identify opportunities for cost-saving initiatives and supplier consolidation.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across multiple sites to align procurement strategies with business goals.
• Provide effective contract negotiation, generating savings and reducing costs in alignment with business needs and market trends.
• Responsible for the end-to-end tender management, including tender reports, presentations, contract analysis, and negotiation.
• Deliver Purchase Price Variance to budget.
• Support the development of the Indirect supply chain strategy with the Supply Chain Manager.
• Provide all departments with purchasing support and input as required.
• Fulfil auditing and compliance requirements related to procurement processes.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in procurement, supply chain, or purchasing roles, ideally within indirect categories, preferred.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management and the ability to influence at all levels.
• Analytical mindset with experience in supplier performance evaluation.
• Ability to manage multiple procurement projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of contract management and procurement compliance.

Qualifications

Essential

• Degree or professional qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
• Experience with procurement software and systems.

Desirable

• Membership of CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) or working towards it.
• Knowledge of procurement best practices and market trends.

Package & Benefits

• Excellent pension and life assurance scheme
• 4-day working week
• 20 days holiday (equivalent to 5 weeks) plus bank holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free on-site parking