Senior Strategic Buyer - Direct Materials

Description

The role leads end‑to‑end sourcing activities, from proposal through contract signature, including negotiation, cost analysis with total‑cost or product‑cost lifecycle models, and business case development to select high‑performing suppliers that meet cost, quality, delivery, sustainability and technology targets. It conducts market analysis, drafts and finalises supplier agreements, and manages commercial risk to ensure supply‑chain continuity. Continuous improvement and cost‑optimisation programmes are implemented for key direct‑material suppliers, while supplier performance is monitored and improvement plans enacted. The buyer also coordinates responses to procurement disruptions, supports global sourcing, aligns procurement strategy with internal stakeholders, and assists HSQE and third‑party auditors.

• Lead end‑to‑end sourcing from proposal to contract, negotiate terms and perform total‑cost analyses.
• Conduct market analysis to identify suppliers, assess trends and draft supplier agreements.
• Manage commercial risks to ensure supply‑chain continuity and resilience.
• Implement continuous improvement and cost‑optimisation programs for direct‑material suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance, drive cost‑reduction initiatives and resolve commercial issues.
• Coordinate responses to procurement disruptions such as delivery delays or shortages.
• Support global sourcing activities and align procurement strategy with internal stakeholders.
• Assist HSQE and third‑party auditors and lead end‑to‑end procurement of new parts.

Requirements

Successful candidates will have a degree in Business Administration, Industrial or Mechanical Engineering, or a comparable qualification, plus at least five years’ experience as a senior strategic buyer in a regulated or complex industry. Professional supply‑chain certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS) and a strong grasp of risk management, total cost of acquisition, contract drafting, SAP, MRP and Microsoft Office are required. Preferred attributes include excellent communication, influencing and relationship‑management skills, strong analytical ability, the capacity to work independently under pressure, and a willingness to travel frequently, supported by a clean driving licence and passport.

• Hold at least five years senior strategic buying experience in a regulated or complex industry, with CPSM or CIPS certification.
• Demonstrate expertise in risk management, total cost of acquisition, contract drafting and SAP/MRP systems.
• Exhibit strong communication, influencing, analytical and relationship‑management skills.
• Willingness to travel frequently to Rolls‑Royce and supplier sites, with a clean driving licence and passport.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance