Senior Purchaser
Location: Bridgwater (Hybrid working available)
Sector: Manufacturing
Package: Paying up to £35,000+ (up to 4% bonus based on site performance as with all our employees
A well-established and highly respected manufacturing business based in Bridgwater is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Purchaser to join its procurement team. This is a hands-on role with real scope to influence sourcing strategy, supplier performance and cost optimisation across direct and indirect spend.
The Role
Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, the Senior Purchaser will play a key role in supporting the business’s operational and strategic procurement requirements. You will work closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver best-value, total-cost solutions while supporting departmental KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives.
This opportunity would suit a commercially astute procurement professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned to business requirements and total cost objectives
- Source and procure direct and indirect materials, services and utilities
- Support and develop global and low-cost country (LCC) sourcing initiatives
- Negotiate supplier contracts and manage supplier QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery) performance
- Manage internal and supplier-held inventory levels
- Support revenue, capital and expenditure activities, including costing and quotation support
- Identify and deliver ongoing cost-saving opportunities
- Represent Purchasing in product and business review meetings
- Support the Purchasing Manager with projects and departmental initiatives
- Drive efficiencies and continuous improvement within procurement processes
- Ensure compliance with internal management systems and external reporting requirements
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through regular reviews and improvement plans
Skills, Experience & Qualifications
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4 or above) or equivalent
- Proven experience in procurement and supplier management within a manufacturing environment
- Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Power BI
- Experience working with ERP systems; Fourth Shift and SAP experience desirable
- CIPS Level 3 (or working towards) advantageous
Key Competencies
- Excellent negotiation, analytical and organisational skills
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels
- Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Proactive, self-motivated and able to work on own initiative
- Strong problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset
- Professional and positive approach when engaging with suppliers and colleagues
Location & Travel
- Based on site in Bridgwater, with some flexible home working
- UK travel as required; occasional international travel for training or supplier visits
- Right to work in the UK is essential
Personal Attributes
- Flexible, reliable and goal-orientated
- High levels of integrity and professionalism
- Trustworthy, cooperative and proactive
If you are interested please press apply or get in contact with Ryan Guy on 07837434353 or Ryan@kingstonbarnes.com