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On behalf of our client, a leading Aerospace manufacturing company, we are recruiting a motivated and experienced Strategic Buyer to join their team in Congleton. Reporting to the Procurement Manager, this role is responsible for leading procurement activities for allocated programmes and commodities, ensuring cost efficiency, risk mitigation, and supplier performance.

With a focus on sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and cost reduction, the Strategic Buyer will play a key role in maintaining a highly capable and cost-effective supply base to support business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

* Develop, update, and present procurement reports and action plans to the Procurement Manager and during programme/project site reviews.

* Oversee supplier sourcing in alignment with the programme’s development strategy.

* Manage the supplier selection process, including the issuance of RFQs.

* Lead programme supplier negotiations covering pricing, terms, and conditions, including customer flow-down and internal requirements.

* Support supplier transfers to ensure continuity and efficiency.

* Implement and negotiate supplier consignment agreements and Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) solutions.

* Ensure procurement change control processes are adhered to, including Export Control and ITAR compliance where applicable.

* Maintain and manage the integrity of the programme BOM to align with cost and budget targets while ensuring accurate data management.

* Lead bid activities for new work, work transfers, and New Product Introduction (NPI).

* Identify and drive cost reduction initiatives in line with site cost reduction objectives.

* Manage supplier risks by leveraging financial assessment tools such as Dun & Bradstreet.

* Act as the escalation point for supplier-related cost or contractual issues.

Skills & Experience

* Proven experience in procurement, supply chain management, or a related field, preferably within aerospace or manufacturing.

* Strong knowledge of sourcing strategies, supplier negotiations, and procurement best practices.

* Experience in cost control, supply chain risk management, and contract negotiation.

* Ability to analyse data, develop strategies, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

* Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications & Experience

* Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.

* Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in procurement or supply chain roles, preferably in aerospace or manufacturing.

* Experience with BOM cost management, supplier performance tracking, and risk mitigation strategies.

* Professional certification (CIPS, APICS) is advantageous.

Package & Benefits

* Competitive salary

* 4-day working week

* Up to 26% combined pension contributions

* Employee Assistance Program

* Career development and progression opportunities