Buyer

Main Purpose of Role

To manage assigned commodities and suppliers to ensure continuity of supply, best value, and alignment with production, quality, and customer delivery requirements. The role includes responsibility for purchasing operations, supplier performance, data accuracy, and departmental development.

Key Responsibilities

Commodity & Purchasing Management

• Manage designated commodities including section steel, fabricated components, and consumables.
• Purchase goods and services that deliver best value for money.
• Ensure materials and services are ordered in time to meet customer delivery dates and production schedules.
• Monitor inbound deliveries and ensure goods are received on time and in the required condition.
• Maintain accurate purchasing data within Business Central and support improvements to purchasing workflows.

Supplier Performance & Development

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Implement supplier performance reporting, KPIs, and scorecards.
• Support supplier development initiatives including quality improvements, cost‑down projects, and lead‑time optimisation.

Quality & Technical Requirements

• Apply knowledge of section‑metal grading and steel specifications.
• Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure purchased materials meet technical standards.

Continuous Improvement

• Suggest and implement best‑practice solutions within the purchasing department.
• Contribute to developing systems, processes, and reporting structures.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all Hutchinson Engineering Health & Safety requirements.
• Ensure ethical sourcing and compliance with company policies.

Core Competencies

Communication

Anticipates and resolves conflict constructively; influences through clear, logical communication; provides timely and constructive feedback.

Teamwork

Creates positive team spirit; listens actively; supports colleagues to achieve shared objectives.

Initiative

Defines and implements new processes; drives improvements; takes positive action even in challenging situations.

Adaptability

Adjusts plans to meet business needs; communicates change effectively; supports others through change.

Customer Focus

Understands and anticipates customer needs; incorporates customer requirements into purchasing decisions; monitors service quality.

Innovation

Encourages creativity; supports implementation of innovative solutions; promotes sharing of ideas across teams.

Personnel Specification

Essential Criteria

• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Experience within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Effective negotiation and supplier‑relationship skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Flexible approach to work and willingness to support wider operational tasks.
• Clean driving licence.
• Willing to Complete CIPS Level
  

To apply, please submit your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.