Strategic Buyer

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Strategic Buyer to join a well-established manufacturing business, supporting day-to-day procurement operations while leading on best practice and continuous improvement within the Purchasing team.
This is a key position supporting the Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager with business-as-usual procurement responsibilities and acting as a key contact for both internal and external stakeholders.
You’ll play a hands-on role in prioritising daily activities, overseeing procurement projects, and ensuring the smooth delivery of operational support while leading a team of five.
This is a site-based role, working five days a week from the Chandler’s Ford office, with occasional travel to suppliers and other sites as required.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
· Support the Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager by taking ownership of business-as-usual procurement activity and acting as the go-to person for team queries.
· Lead the day-to-day workload management and task prioritisation across a team of five.
· Line manage and develop procurement team members, providing coaching, feedback, and support with performance management where needed.
· Coordinate with internal departments and external suppliers to ensure timely delivery and effective communication on procurement matters.
· Review and implement procurement processes, work instructions and procedures, embedding best practice across the team.
· Manage project work from concept through to completion, taking responsibility for process improvement and efficiency gains.
· Support supplier audits and visits as required, ensuring strong supplier performance and relationship management.
· Uphold high standards of compliance and quality assurance within a manufacturing procurement environment.
Skills & Experience Required
· Proven background in Procurement or Purchasing within a manufacturing environment.
· Demonstrated experience managing people – with a focus on coaching, developing and supporting team performance.
· Strong understanding of procurement best practice, with the ability to identify and implement process improvements.
· Effective communicator with internal stakeholders and suppliers, confident in dealing with complex queries and competing priorities.
· Excellent organisation and problem-solving skills, with the initiative to lead projects and make decisions independently.
· Comfortable working at pace in a fast-moving, quality-focused production environment.
· CIPS qualification beneficial, but not essential – relevant experience is key.
· Strong IT skills with experience using ERP/MRP systems.
Summary
Position: Strategic Buyer
Location: Chandler’s Ford
Reports to: Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager
Direct Reports: 5
Travel: Occasional supplier visits (pool/hire car available)
Duration: Permanent
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 DOE
Start: ASAP
Apply: NOW
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Strategic Buyer or Senior Buyer looking to step into a leadership role and shape the day-to-day procurement function of a successful and growing manufacturing business.
📢 Interested? Apply today or contact the team at Kiota to learn more