Senior Purchaser

Senior Purchaser Location: Bridgwater (Hybrid working available) Sector: Manufacturing Package: Paying up to £35,000+ (up to 4% bonus based on site performance as with all our employees A well-established and highly respected manufacturing business based in Bridgwater is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Purchaser to join its procurement team. This is a hands-on role with real scope to influence sourcing strategy, supplier performance and cost optimisation across direct and indirect spend. The Role Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, the Senior Purchaser will play a key role in supporting the business’s operational and strategic procurement requirements. You will work closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver best-value, total-cost solutions while supporting departmental KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives. This opportunity would suit a commercially astute procurement professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement purchasing strategies aligned to business requirements and total cost objectives Source and procure direct and indirect materials, services and utilities Support and develop global and low-cost country (LCC) sourcing initiatives Negotiate supplier contracts and manage supplier QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery) performance Manage internal and supplier-held inventory levels Support revenue, capital and expenditure activities, including costing and quotation support Identify and deliver ongoing cost-saving opportunities Represent Purchasing in product and business review meetings Support the Purchasing Manager with projects and departmental initiatives Drive efficiencies and continuous improvement within procurement processes Ensure compliance with internal management systems and external reporting requirements Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through regular reviews and improvement plans Skills, Experience & Qualifications GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4 or above) or equivalent Proven experience in procurement and supplier management within a manufacturing environment Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Power BI Experience working with ERP systems; Fourth Shift and SAP experience desirable CIPS Level 3 (or working towards) advantageous Key Competencies Excellent negotiation, analytical and organisational skills Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines Proactive, self-motivated and able to work on own initiative Strong problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset Professional and positive approach when engaging with suppliers and colleagues Location & Travel Based on site in Bridgwater, with some flexible home working UK travel as required; occasional international travel for training or supplier visits Right to work in the UK is essential Personal Attributes Flexible, reliable and goal-orientated High levels of integrity and professionalism Trustworthy, cooperative and proactive If you are interested please press apply or get in contact with Ryan Guy on (phone number removed) or (url removed)