SF Recruitment are working with market leader within the rail industry to recruit for a Buyer. Based at the organisations Leeds site 2 days a week this is a hybrid working role. We are ideally looking for candidates with procurement experience within the rail (manufacturing or services) industry, alternatively those with a strong direct procurement skillset within a medium to low volume manufacturing environment may also be suitable. This is a fixed term contract role initially for 12m, so only those who are comfortable taking on a contract role should apply (Ideally those who are immediately available or who are expecting to be due to circumstance)

Role Overview: You will be responsible for identifying opportunities to optimize key spending areas, with the aim of improving cost efficiency, delivery performance, quality, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with company ethical standards, SoX regulations, and the Procurement Policy and Authorities at all times.
• Provide procurement support across the Group, ensuring adherence to industry best practices 
• Lead and coordinate the planning and execution of RFQs and RFPs, including requirements gathering to support tender processes.
• Conduct supplier negotiations, ensuring that all contractual terms and conditions align with standards (e.g., Rail Safety Standards, Health & Safety) and any relevant legal or industry standards.
• Collaborate effectively with stakeholders to offer sourcing expertise and enhance operational efficiency and accountability.
• Lead Supplier Relationship Management activities, such as Quarterly Business Reviews, with key suppliers.
• Contribute to the development and ongoing improvement of Procurement Policies, methods, and tools to meet evolving business needs in line with best-in-class procurement strategies.
• Achieve agreed cost savings and value-added targets for the business.
• Identify, mitigate, and communicate risks in a timely manner to stakeholders.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration, sharing of lessons learned, and the integration of sourcing strategy insights across the company.

Skillset Requirements: 

• Direct procurement experience, ideally within the rail industry 
• "Relationship builder" style, able to drive best cost & value within a smaller supplier base.
• Able to manage stakeholders within both technical & corporate roles