Senior Strategic Buyer

Have you ever worked for a business that makes you feel proud, as in really proud? One that, when people ask what you do or who you work for you can't help but smile as you know what their reaction will be when you tell them? One that presents plenty of challenges along with brilliant team spirit and support in delivering results? One where career progression and personal development are a genuine possibility, not an empty promise? Well if not, and you've got a background in procurement then this is your chance!!What's on offer?Base salary of circa £55,000 to £65,000Discretionary BonusAccess to Mercedes preferential rate lease schemePrivate medical coverContributory PensionHybrid working - 3 days in the office 2 at home26 days holiday + bank holsWhat will you be doing?You'll be taking control of a multi-million £ spend profile covering an area of direct production spend. You'll be expected to define, and implement, category strategies for each of your key spend areas that deliver against the overall department savings plan as well as provide high quality goods and services, and will also manage a team of 2-3 Buyers, ensuring they are correctly managing their categories, suppliers and delivering against their cost savings and other targets too. You'll be running strategic sourcing projects, tender processes, negotiations, contract awards and supplier relationship management, the full end to end process so the role mixes both strategic and operational sides of purchasing. You'll be expected to build excellent relationships with your key departmental stakeholders, guiding and advising on procurement best practice and working with them to deliver the best possible solutions to the business.Who will you be doing it for?You'll be joining an iconic automotive manufacturer, a business steeped in history and creating stunning vehicles. They offer a fast paced, challenging environment, as well as the opportunity to grow and develop your skills and progress your career - there are numerous examples of people joining and being promoted within the first 12-18 months, in fact this very role is due to the internal promotion of a recent hire. They are currently undergoing a multi-million pound modernisation of their office environment that, when finished, will deliver a brilliant space to spend your on-site working days.What do you need to bring to the party?To be successful in this role it is expected that you'll be able to demonstrate the majority of the following skills and experience:Proven experience of developing and implement procurement category/commodity strategies that deliver cost savings/reduction - ideally this will be in an automotive or other fast moving manufacturing environment.Either previous people management/leadership experience or able to demonstrate the required skills and characteristics to manage a small teamStrong strategic sourcing and supplier evaluation skills as well as previous experience of negotiating and awarding contracts. Experience of working with both domestic and international suppliers would be beneficialExcellent stakeholder management skills, able to build relationships and influence at all levels of a businessWilling and able to be on site 3 days a week - this will likely be more during your first 3 months whilst you build your understanding of the business and relationships with peopleAble to travel both in the UK and overseas when neededIf the above sounds like the next step in your already successful career, and you’d like to learn more, apply today with a copy of your CV, LinkedIn profile or whatever you have for immediate consideration – every application is reviewed by a person, and everyone will get a response, it’s the least you deserve.