Assistant Buyer

Position: Assistant Buyer
Location: London
Salary: £30k - £33k

The Assistant Buyer role sits within the Engineering Department of a diversified international group operating across more than seven countries worldwide. Based at the London office, the role forms part of an international engineering procurement team responsible for sourcing spare parts and assemblies for manufacturing industries, primarily serving the Middle East market.

The role offers exposure to sourcing products from Europe and the Far East, providing valuable insight into international supply chains and global procurement practices.

Role:
• Understanding internal stakeholder requirements and preparing Requests for Quotation (RFQs) accurately and efficiently
• Receiving, analysing, comparing, and evaluating supplier quotations
• Prepare cost comparison sheets and calculate margins.
• Preparing customer and internal offers using the company’s bespoke SAP system
• Negotiating pricing, lead times, and commercial terms with vendors
• Raising and processing purchase orders
• Preparing procurement and management reports
• Selection and development of vendors to best meet the specifications, quality and logistical requirements.
• Ensuring accurate and timely data entry within the in-house SAP system
• Typing, proof reading and production of correspondence and documents using in-house style compliant templates
• Monitoring and responding to telephone and email enquiries on behalf of the engineering team
• Updating product brochures, catalogues, and marketing materials as required
• Database management

Requirements:
• Experience in FMCG is preferred, but will look at candidates from other industries with strong procurement experience and transferable skills
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of procurement principles
• Familiarity with INCO terms & Forex / Exchange rates as this is an international Trading environment.
• Ability to evaluate suppliers and negotiate favourable terms of business.
• Hands on ability to manage and enter enquiries, quotations and contracts onto computer systems.
• Strong numerical skills and high level of computer literacy
• Good communication skills both verbal and written
• Demonstrated experience with ERP systems is highly desirable, particularly SAP Business One
• Ability to learn and deliver results.
• Language skills Fluency in English.
• Knowledge of European languages would be an added advantage.
• High attention to detail, with a methodical and organised approach to work
• A proactive, flexible, and “can-do” attitude
• Have a flexible approach to working hours when necessary
• Have the ability to prioritise work effectively
• Be a confident user of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Have ability and enthusiasm for learning new systems and IT packages