Buyer - Owen Daniels : Job Details

BuyerLocation: Irlam (Manchester), UKJoin a leading manufacturer near Eccles, UK, committed to quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service. As we continue our growth journey, we are now looking to appoint a dedicated Buyer to join our team at the Irlam site. This is a newly created role aimed at bringing strategic direction and operational excellence to our procurement function.If you're a motivated, commercially astute professional with a background in strategic sourcing and operational buying within a manufacturing environment—this is your opportunity to shape and enhance the supply chain for both New Units and Aftermarket operations.Job Summary:Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Buyer will lead procurement activity at the Irlam site, supporting strategic sourcing at a regional and global level. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Commercial teams to manage the end-to-end procurement process—from supplier selection and negotiation to purchase order management and supplier performance.This is a full-time, on-site position where you'll be a key contributor to operational efficiency, cost management, and long-term supply chain development.Key Responsibilities:

• Source raw materials to support site manufacturing, engaging with Engineering and Operations to understand demand and timelines.
• Lead supplier identification, qualification, negotiation, and onboarding.
• Manage quotation requests for spares, coordinate pricing, and liaise with Commercial on lead times.
• Negotiate supplier agreements to ensure cost-effective and reliable supply.
• Drive supplier rationalisation and strategic supply base reductions.
• Support new product introductions, pricing exercises, and procurement for capital projects.
• Oversee long-term supply agreements and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Monitor supplier performance, lead business reviews, and resolve quality or delivery issues.
• Maintain up-to-date procurement records and participate in standard cost setting.
• Ensure compliance with customs codes and shipping documentation.
• Collaborate with freight forwarders and support logistics optimisation.
• Prepare supply chain reports and maintain ERP system accuracy.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proven experience in procurement or operational buying, ideally in a manufacturing or make-to-order environment.
• Strong commercial awareness and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience with ERP systems and advanced MS Excel skills.
• Understanding of modern manufacturing philosophies (e.g. Lean, JIT, WCM) is desirable.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Education and Experience:

• Degree, diploma, or equivalent qualification in a business or technical discipline.
• APICS, CPIM, or IIPMM certifications are desirable.
• Demonstrable success in supplier negotiation and procurement management.
• Experience supporting both operational and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive salary: £35,000 – £45,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Annual performance bonus of 5%
• 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday (on-site role)
• Opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development
• Be part of a collaborative team driving innovation and supply chain excellence

Location: Irlam, Manchester, UKContract: Full-time, permanentIf you’re ready to take ownership of procurement activities at a thriving manufacturing site and make a real impact, we want to hear from you. Apply now to join a business that values quality, expertise, and continuous improvement.