Lead Buyer

We are seeking a highly capable Senior Buyer to join a dynamic and fast‑moving manufacturing organisation. This role is pivotal in ensuring material availability, driving supplier performance, supporting multiple New Product Introduction (NPI) projects, and continually improving cost, quality, and delivery performance. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment, can manage competing priorities, and excels in building strong supplier relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Supplier Management

Manage the end‑to‑end procurement of direct and indirect materials to ensure operational continuity.
Develop and maintain robust relationships with existing and new suppliers to secure competitive pricing, quality, and delivery performance.
Lead supplier performance reviews, setting KPIs for OTIF, quality, cost reduction, and service levels.
Identify and mitigate supply risks, implementing contingency plans as required.
Negotiate contracts, pricing agreements, and long‑term commercial arrangements.

NPI & Project Management

Act as the purchasing lead for multiple NPI and engineering change projects, ensuring component readiness for prototype, pre‑production, and full production phases.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to source new components, obtain quotations, and evaluate technical feasibility.
Track project timelines, ensuring procurement deliverables are met in line with overall project milestones.
Drive cost optimisation for new projects without compromising quality or lead times.

Operational Excellence

Support continuous improvement initiatives across procurement and supply chain functions.
Drive measurable improvement in supplier OTIF performance, working cross‑functionally to resolve delivery issues and root causes.
Maintain accurate purchasing data including lead times, MOQ, pricing, and supplier performance metrics.
Ensure compliance with internal policies, processes, and audit requirements.

Problem Solving & Pressure Management

Respond quickly to production shortages, quality issues, or unexpected supplier constraints.
Demonstrate resilience in high‑pressure situations-balancing short‑term operational needs with long‑term supply chain improvements.
Manage conflicting tasks and priorities effectively, ensuring key deliverables are met on time.

Skills & Experience Required

Proven experience as a Senior Buyer, Buyer, or Procurement Specialist within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment (automotive, aerospace, FMCG, engineering, or similar).
Strong background in managing multiple NPI projects simultaneously.
Demonstrated ability to operate under pressure with tight deadlines and shifting priorities.
Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier relationship management skills.
Experience driving improvements in supplier OTIF, cost reduction initiatives, and supply chain performance.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and BOMs (desirable).
Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and strong analytical/reporting capabilities.
CIPS qualification or working towards it (beneficial).

Personal Attributes

Highly organised with strong project management capability.
Confident decision-maker with a proactive, solutions‑focused approach.
Resilient, adaptable, and able to perform in a high‑demand environment.
Strong communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.

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