Senior Buyer
Ei Electronics is seeking a senior buyer with electronics experience and strong negotiation skills to join our team. The successful applicant will report to the head of Sustainability & Supply chain. This is a new position being created to work with a newly promoted senior buyer and the rest of the supply chain team.
The position will be responsible for managing a number of key supplier accounts with a focus on balancing cost, quality, and delivery. Sustainability is a big part of Ei's focus so each team member will be responsible for ensuring they actively progress our company goals in this area.
Responsibilities include supplier sourcing and development, strategic negotiation of pricing, terms, and lead times, risk management for materials, and collaborating with internal teams like quality and engineering. The role requires strong analytical skills, market knowledge of electronics, proficiency in ERP systems, and effective communication to achieve cost savings and supply chain efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
* Supplier Management:
Research, evaluate, and develop new and existing suppliers of electronic components. Establish strong, long-term relationships with key global suppliers to optimise material availability and performance.
* Negotiation:
Lead negotiations with suppliers by being abreast with the latest market intelligence and commodity price analysis information to secure competitive prices, favourable payment and freight terms, and optimal lead times.
* Procurement Strategy:
Align procurement activities with the company's supply chain strategies and overall business goals. New ideas are vital so the new candidate will have the opportunity to put their stamp on our supply chain strategy.
* Cost & Risk Management:
Responsible for managing continuous cost reduction and manage material risks to improve availability and reduce supply chain disruptions for suppliers in your portfolio.
* Internal Collaboration:
Work closely with internal departments such as production, engineering, and quality to meet production demands, manage inventory, and ensure project success.
* Market & Technical Expertise:
Develop and maintain expert knowledge of the electronics industry, market trends, and the specific components being procured.
* Process Improvement:
Assist in driving continuous improvement in purchasing processes and systems, ensuring adherence to policies and ethical practices.
Key Skills & Qualifications
* Electronics Market Knowledge:
Strong understanding of the electronics supply chain, including component types, major suppliers, and market dynamics.
* Negotiation Expertise:
Proven ability to negotiate terms, secure cost savings, and develop new relationships with existing and potential suppliers.
* Analytical & Problem-Solving:
Strong analytical skills to interpret market data, make informed purchasing decisions, and resolve complex supply issues.
* ERP/Procurement Systems:
Proficiency in using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and other procurement software. Ei has designed its own supplier's portal that links all stakeholders together on one platform. This is a key tool to the buying team and is instrumental in achieving the supply chain strategy.
* Communication:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with internal stakeholders and global suppliers.
* Leadership:
Ability to provide direction, leadership, and collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment.
* Education:
A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering or Business Administration.
* Experience:
Minimum of 7 years of procurement experience, with a specific focus on electronics components.