Senior Strategic Buyer (Materials)
Location: Staffordshire
Industry: Automotive
Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Competitive £45-55k dependent on experience
Benefits: Holiday, Pension, Dental, Health, Life Insurance
Other: Relocation package provided
About the Role
We are seeking a technically astute and commercially driven Senior Strategic Buyer to lead sourcing strategy for metal materials and cast components used across a range of automotive systems, from power train to chassis and structural assemblies.
This is a key role in our clients procurement team, with a focus on securing high-quality ferrous and non-ferrous materials, precision castings, forgings, and machined parts to support their expanding vehicle programmes.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development of sourcing strategies for materials including aluminium, steel, iron, and speciality alloys used in cast and machined components.
- Manage procurement for sand, die, investment and pressure castings, along with forged and CNC machined metal parts.
- Identify, qualify, and manage suppliers across global markets, ensuring performance in quality, delivery, cost, and innovation.
- Conduct market analysis and monitor commodity trends affecting metal prices and supply chain risks.
- Negotiate complex contracts and long-term agreements, delivering cost savings and commercial stability.
- Collaborate with engineering, design, and manufacturing teams to ensure supplier capabilities align with technical and project requirements.
- Support product launches and engineering changes with robust sourcing and lead time planning.
About You
- Substantial experience in a strategic procurement role within the automotive, aerospace, or heavy engineering sectors, with a focus on metal materials and castings.
- Deep understanding of metal fabrication processes, including foundry operations, heat treatment, and machining.
- Strong commercial acumen, supplier negotiation, and contract management skills.
- Technical literacy with the ability to interpret drawings, material specs, and tolerances.
- Excellent stakeholder management and supplier development capabilities.
- Engineering or materials science degree preferred; CIPS or similar qualification is advantageous.
Why Join?
- Be at the core of sourcing critical materials for a global brand.
- Join a progressive team driving sustainable, cost-effective material strategies.
- Enjoy a competitive salary and great career development.
- Work on projects that define the next generation of excellence.
