Material Buyer

Anderson Knight is currently looking for a Material Buyer for one of our clients based in Fife.

The Material Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing materials and supplies required for production and operations. The role ensures that all materials are procured at the best possible price, quality, and delivery standards, while maintaining relationships with suppliers and adhering to company procurement policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify material requirements based on production schedules or inventory levels.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders (POs) in alignment with company policies.
• Source and evaluate suppliers to ensure the best value for quality, cost, and delivery timelines.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Evaluate supplier performance and address issues like delays or quality concerns.
• Negotiate contracts and terms to achieve cost savings and ensure supply continuity.
• Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstock situations.
• Coordinate with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure timely material deliveries.
• Address and resolve discrepancies in deliveries, such as short shipments or defective goods.
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and new supplier opportunities.
• Identify risks in supply chains and propose mitigation strategies.
• Ensure adherence to company procurement policies and ethical standards.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier evaluations.
• Support internal and external audits related to procurement activities.
• Work closely with production, engineering, and finance teams to align procurement with business needs.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to understand material demands and address supply chain challenges.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CIPS)

Experience:

• Minimum [-4years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles.
• Industry experience in [manufacturing/construction/retail] is preferred.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure to meet deadlines