Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer – Materials

Tyne & Wear (on-site full-time)

£50,000–£58,000 + benefits

We are working with a multi-site manufacturing business operating in complex, project-led environments, supplying engineered products into demanding industrial sectors.

This is a commercially focused role where you will take ownership of supplier relationships, negotiate contracts and pricing, identify cost-saving opportunities, and help drive continuous improvement across the procurement function. Working closely with operations, planning, and suppliers, you will ensure the business secures best value while maintaining quality, service, and supply continuity.

This opportunity would suit an experienced manufacturing buyer who enjoys balancing day-to-day purchasing activity with commercial negotiation, supplier development, and data-driven decision making.

The role

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• Source goods and services to support manufacturing operations
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• Identify and deliver cost-saving opportunities through commercial negotiations, benchmarking, and supplier reviews
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• Lead or support RFQs, RFPs, and tender activities
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• Analyse spend data to identify savings opportunities and improve purchasing efficiency
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• Build, develop, and manage supplier relationships to drive performance and continuous improvement
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• Negotiate supplier pricing, contracts, and commercial terms
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• Review existing supplier agreements and identify opportunities for renegotiation and cost reduction
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• Ensure supplier contracts comply with company policies and effectively manage commercial risk
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• Monitor supplier performance against contractual obligations and service level agreements
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• Work collaboratively with operations, planning, and other internal stakeholders to support business objectives
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• Maintain accurate procurement records across ERP/MRP systems
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• Use Excel and procurement data to support reporting, supplier performance, and commercial decision making
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The person

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• Established experience in a Buyer or Senior Buyer role within manufacturing
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• Strong supplier negotiation and relationship management experience
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• Experience managing commercial contracts and supplier agreements
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• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyse and interpret procurement data
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• Commercially minded with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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• Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities
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• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build relationships across the business
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• Degree qualified in a business-related discipline would be advantageous
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• Experience within a high-volume manufacturing environment would be beneficial
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We are supporting several clients across the region with similar requirements. Suitable applicants may also be considered for comparable opportunities.

This vacancy is advertised by Continuum Recruitment Group Ltd, acting as a recruitment agency. We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals. By applying, you consent to your data being processed in accordance with our Privacy Policy, available on request.