Buyer in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

Job Title: Project Buyer
Reports To: Project Procurement Manager
Location: Milton Keynes

Position Summary

The Project Buyer acts as the main operational procurement contact for assigned suppliers and projects, managing the purchase of goods and services throughout the project lifecycle. The role focuses on securing best value, managing risks and maintaining effective relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.

Working closely with project teams and other stakeholders, the Project Buyer ensures procurement activities align with sourcing strategies, supply chain requirements and project objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Purchase commodities and services required for assigned projects, managing operational relationships with production teams, engineering teams and suppliers.

• For purchases outside framework agreements, prepare RFQs, evaluate proposals, negotiate terms and select suppliers.

• Deliver cost reductions against departmental targets.

• Ensure orders comply with project-specific, company and customer terms and conditions.

• Support the development of long-term supplier relationships in line with the Strategic Procurement Team’s direction.

• Assist in identifying and implementing product and process improvements.

Skills and Competencies

• Good understanding of purchasing, materials planning, project management, production, quality, material control, production planning and stock control systems.

• Knowledge of contract formulation, terms and conditions, and negotiation techniques.

• Good understanding of ERP systems, ideally SAP.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office packages.

• Strong communication, organisational and planning skills.

• Ability to improve performance using data insights and colleague input.

• A practical, solutions-focused approach to resolving operational problems.

Qualifications and Experience

• Formal procurement qualifications.

• At least five years’ experience in a project-driven manufacturing or service environment.

• Experience working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Personal Attributes

• Team-oriented, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

• Self-motivated and proactive in resolving issues and improving process efficiency.

• Flexible and adaptable to changing business needs.