Buyer - Supply Chain

Location: Sheffield

We are working in partnership with a leading engineering organisation that supports the iron and steel sector. They are seeking an experienced Buyer to join their dynamic procurement team in Sheffield. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a business that delivers high-quality solutions across complex supply chains.

🎯 Role Overview

As Buyer, you will be responsible for managing the procurement of goods and services to meet cost, quality, and delivery targets. This includes developing procurement strategies, sourcing and assessing suppliers, negotiating contracts, placing purchase orders, and managing supplier performance to support business objectives.

Technical understanding and CAD literacy would be highly beneficial in this role, especially when working closely with engineering teams and suppliers on product development, manufacturability, and specification alignment.

🔧 Key Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy

Develop procurement strategies aligned with business goals to support commercial success
Conduct market analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities that enhance competitive advantageSupplier Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
Monitor performance and resolve supply issues proactively
Drive continuous improvement and innovation across the supply baseSourcing & Negotiation

Identify and evaluate suppliers based on cost, quality, and delivery
Lead structured sourcing and tendering processes
Negotiate contracts to optimise commercial outcomes
Manage purchase orders and supplier riskStakeholder Engagement

Collaborate with internal teams including Sales, Engineering, and Quality to ensure procurement supports wider business needs
Translate technical requirements into clear supplier expectations
Guide and support Assistant Buyers to deliver strategic and operational procurement services 

🧠 Skills & Knowledge

Essential

Strategic thinking with the ability to tailor procurement strategies for complex supply chains
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supplier capabilities
Experience in quality management and embedding standards into supplier contracts
Proven ability to lead tendering and negotiation processes
Highly organised with strong planning and attention to detail
Clear communicator with the ability to distil complex information
Proficient in Microsoft Office; SAP experience is desirable
Strong problem-solving skills to ensure timely deliveryDesirable

Knowledge of contract law and commercial risk management
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD files confidently
Comfortable discussing tolerances, materials, and manufacturing methods with suppliers and technical teams
Confident decision-maker under pressure 

📚 Experience & Qualifications

Essential

Several years of procurement experience, ideally within engineering or manufacturing
Proven track record of delivering resultsDesirable

Background in engineering, manufacturing, or quality
International experience or exposure to diverse cultures
Professional qualifications in Procurement (CIPS), Engineering, or Manufacturing
Hands-on experience with CAD tools or technical documentation is a strong advantage 

🚗 Additional Requirements

Full UK driving licence
Willingness to travel nationally and internationally, sometimes at short notice 

💼 Our Client's Culture

Our client fosters a collaborative and accountable working environment. They value individuals who take ownership, work well with others, and deliver practical solutions. You'll be joining a team that thrives on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients