Manufacturing Buyer / Procurement Specialist

Manufacturing Procurement Specialist

Location: Dudley, West Midlands, On-site

Manufacturing and Engineering

Salary: Competitive +profit related bonus scheme, 26 days holiday, pension,

The Opportunity

Are you the kind of person who sees procurement not just as purchasing-but as powering production? We're looking for a sharp, proactive Manufacturing Buyer / Procurement Specialist to take charge of sourcing excellence across their Plastics and Foundry operations.

This is a high-impact role that combines strategic buying with hands-on materials management. You'll keep production running smoothly, balancing cost, quality, and delivery while driving supplier performance and efficiency.

If you thrive on solving problems, building strong supplier partnerships, and keeping operations one step ahead-this is your next move.

What You'll Do

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Source materials and services that meet demanding standards for quality, cost, and delivery.
• Build and maintain supplier relationships that add real value to the business.
• Identify and on-board new suppliers while optimising the existing base for efficiency and reliability.
• Manage international sourcing challenges-think global supply chains, MOQs, and logistics complexities.

Cost & Commercial Management

• Negotiate and evaluate supplier bids to secure the best commercial and technical outcomes.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and benchmark pricing across categories.
• Support contract negotiations and deliver measurable savings without compromising quality.

Materials & Stock Control

• Maintain accurate stock levels to keep production moving-no delays, no excess.
• Track orders, expedite deliveries, and ensure suppliers hit OTIF targets.
• Work closely with Stores and Production to keep ERP data accurate and live.

Compliance & Systems

• Ensure all procurement activity aligns with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards.
• Prepare RFQs, evaluate competitive quotes, and support continuous ERP improvement.
• Report on supplier performance and support finance with invoice queries and reconciliation's.

Logistics & International Trade

• Coordinate shipments with the Import Team and global freight partners.
• Manage shipping documentation, schedules, and Incoterms compliance.
• Contribute to logistics reviews and drive performance across the supply chain.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, production, and finance teams to align purchasing with business goals.
• Represent procurement in meetings and projects that shape the company's strategic direction.

What You'll Bring

• 3+ years' experience in procurement or buying, ideally within manufacturing or engineering.
• A CIPS qualification (or working towards it).
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Experience managing international supply chains and long lead times.
• Confident with ERP systems and data-driven decision making.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 & 14001 processes.
• Excellent communication, attention to detail, and collaborative mindset.
• Willingness to travel for supplier visits and trade shows.

Why Join Us?

• Work with international suppliers and gain valuable global experience.
• Influence procurement strategy and process improvement across the business.
• Join a supportive, forward-thinking team that values innovation and continuous improvement.
• Competitive salary and benefits, with genuine opportunities to develop and progress.
• If you're ready to take ownership, drive performance, and help shape the future of a growing manufacturing business-we'd love to hear from you.

Your CV will be forwarded to Jonathan Lee Recruitment, a leading engineering and manufacturing recruitment consultancy established in 1978. The services advertised by Jonathan Lee Recruitment are those of an Employment Agency.
In order for your CV to be processed effectively, please ensure your name, email address, phone number and location (post code OR town OR county, as a minimum) are included.

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