Senior Engineering Buyer – Manufacturing

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Engineering Buyer to lead procurement of engineering components, raw materials and services for a well‑established manufacturing company in West Sussex. The role will oversee material availability, cost optimisation and support new product introductions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead purchasing of engineering components, tooling, raw materials and subcontracted services.
• Ensure on‑time delivery to meet production schedules and operational demand.
• Manage supplier relationships, conduct performance reviews, negotiate contracts and drive strategic sourcing.
• Identify and deliver cost‑saving initiatives while maintaining accurate pricing data in Microsoft Business Central.
• Support New Product Introduction, engineering change management, R&D projects and component obsolescence planning.
• Optimise stock levels, reducing excess, obsolete and slow‑moving inventory.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality and Aftersales teams to improve supply‑chain performance.
• Contribute to continuous‑improvement projects across procurement and supply‑chain operations.

Required profile

• Proven experience in engineering procurement within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of technical drawings, engineering components, materials and production processes.
• Previous experience managing and developing a buying or procurement team.
• Demonstrated supplier management, contract negotiation and commercial decision‑making abilities.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems, preferably Microsoft Business Central.
• Background working in an ISO 9001‑certified organisation.

Required skills

• Microsoft Business Central
• ERP/MRP system utilisation
• Interpretation of technical drawings
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 standards

What we offer

• Salary range £45,000‑£60,000 depending on experience.
• Up to 8 % company pension contribution.
• Annual pay review.
• Generous holiday entitlement.
• Optional private medical care.
• Death‑in‑service benefit.