Job Description

Are you an experienced Buyer looking to take the next step in your career? We are a fast growing business supporting high performance engineering and operational programmes, and we're looking for a confident, proactive Buyer to join our expanding procurement team.

In this role, you'll be responsible for managing the procurement of goods and services that keep our operations running smoothly. You'll collaborate across departments, build strong supplier relationships, and ensure we secure the best value while maintaining high quality standards. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a dynamic business where you can influence purchasing strategy, drive cost efficiencies, and contribute to continuous improvement.

As a Buyer, you will support the full procurement cycle from sourcing and negotiation through to supplier management and purchase order processing. You will work closely with suppliers and internal teams to ensure materials, components, and services are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys taking ownership, thrives in fast paced environments, and has a strong eye for commercial detail.

Key responsibilities

Purchase goods, materials, components, and services to meet required cost, quality, and delivery targets Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, acting as a key point of contact Negotiate pricing, terms, contracts, and delivery schedules to secure favourable outcomes Support internal stakeholders and communicate supply issues that may impact operations Prepare and raise purchase orders, order schedules, and procurement documentation Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and supply chain developments Conduct supplier assessments, performance reviews, and support supplier audits with the QHSE team Analyse cost data, support cost-reduction initiatives, and prepare procurement reports Investigate and resolve supply issues such as delivery delays, invoice discrepancies, or quality concerns Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, procedures, and industry regulations Contribute to continuous improvement across procurement processes and business operations

Essential qualification, skills and experience

CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement & Supply Operations CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply (or working towards) Proven ability to negotiate prices, contract terms, and delivery schedules Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multiple internal teams Experience resolving procurement issues (delays, shortages, quality problems) Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment High accuracy with purchase orders, contracts, and documentation Experience using procurement systems/ERP platforms and strong Excel skills Understanding of end-to-end procurement processes and supplier relationship management Knowledge of supply chain dynamics including lead times, logistics, and inventory management

Desirable skills and experience

Ability to analyse market trends and supplier performance data Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and procurement cost management Familiarity with UK contract law and procurement regulations Experience conducting market research and risk assessments Background in manufacturing, engineering, or technical procurement
Kraken Works Limited is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination and offers equal opportunities to all. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships.

Important to know:

Due to the nature of our work many of our roles require a UK nationality and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment must meet the requirement of right to work in the UK and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to Government security checks.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Enhanced maternity leave Enhanced paternity leave Free flu jabs Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site parking Private dental insurance Private medical insurance Sick pay
Application question(s):

What is your salary expectations? What is your notice period? What experience do you have managing the end to end procurement process? Which procurement or ERP systems have you used previously? Are you eligible to work in the UK? If you do not have five continuous years residency in the UK you may not be eligible for this role
Work Location: In person