Senior Buyer - 6 Month FTC

We are thrilled to partner with a leading Defence company to offer an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer to join their Purchasing team on a 6 Month FTC. In this role, you will be key to executing the supply chain strategy and cultivating strong, risk-mitigated supply partnerships to ensure the effective delivery of high-quality products and services, while minimizing ownership costs. Key Responsibilities: Procurement & Supply Chain Management: - Oversee procurement operations for an engineering-focused supplier portfolio, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. - Cultivate and strengthen supplier relationships, exploring opportunities to add greater value and enhance the performance of a dynamic, agile supply chain. - Foster a culture of continuous improvement in all procurement processes and supplier interactions. - Lead business reviews, assessing supplier performance and setting objectives for improvement to meet business goals. - Regularly assess risks and conduct supplier audits, ensuring ongoing alignment of supplier investments with company strategies. - Apply problem-solving techniques to drive meaningful improvements in supplier performance, addressing issues at their core. - Identify and source new suppliers capable of meeting complex specifications and commercial expectations. - Support the introduction of new parts and adapt the supply chain to accommodate evolving needs and requirements. - Prepare and issue RFIs and RFQs, providing comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and ROI recommendations. - Manage changes in supplier relationships, including onboarding, disengagement, and change management throughout the contract duration. Skills & Experience: Essential: - Strong analytical abilities, with proficiency in MRP/ERP systems and advanced IT skills. - Experience in technical procurement, including engineering and machined parts, with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings. Desirable: - Experience working within integrated project management teams. - Experience in forming and structuring contracts. - CIPS Level 4 or above qualification. Personal Attributes: - Demonstrates the company values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage. - A collaborative team player with strong communication skills, able to engage with cross-functional teams. - Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail. - Proactive and results-driven, capable of planning, executing, and monitoring procurement activities to achieve supply chain goals. - Resilient and adaptable, with the ability to thrive under pressure, multitask, and meet demanding deadlines. Work Life Balance: - 37.5-hour working week. - Lunchtime finishes on Fridays. - Hybrid/flexible working arrangements. - 28 days annual leave, with Christmas closure. - Holiday purchasing scheme.