Job Title: Commercial Buyer

Department: Operations

Location: Gloucester

Temp/Perm: Permanent

Hours/Shifts:  37 Hours – Monday To Friday

Reports To: Head Of Procurement 

Direct Reports: None

 

Role Summary

As a commercial buyer you will play a pivotal role within the procurement team, working independently to manage purchasing activities and support the Head of Procurement in achieving the company’s strategic goals. This role requires a skilled professional with experience in sourcing, negotiating, and supplier management, capable of handling end-to-end procurement processes. The commercial buyer will ensure effective supply chain management and contribute to cost savings and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Independently source, negotiate, and procure materials, components, and services to meet business needs.
  • Develop and maintain supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Ensure all purchases align with company policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
  • Support new product development by sourcing and qualifying new suppliers and materials.
  • Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, reliability, cost, and delivery performance.
  • Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and negotiate favourable terms and conditions.
  • Proactively identify and mitigate potential supply chain risks to ensure continuity of supply.
  • Assist the Head of Procurement in managing supplier contracts and agreements.
  • Conduct cost analysis and identify opportunities for cost reductions.
  • Track and report on Purchase Price Variance (PPV) and other cost-related metrics.
  • Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings and value for the business.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date procurement data within ERP/MRP systems.
  • Generate and analyse procurement reports to support decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Ensure all procurement documentation is accurate, complete, and audit-read.
  • Identify opportunities to streamline procurement processes and improve efficiency.
  • Support the Head of Procurement in implementing best practices and new procedures.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Procurement team.
  • Work closely with internal departments to align procurement activities with business objectives.
  • Act as a key liaison between the Procurement team and other stakeholders, ensuring smooth communication and issue resolution.
  • Participate in cross-functional meetings and contribute to project success.

Other Responsibilities          

  • To carry out any other reasonable requests and tasks as requested by the Company.

Key Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience (3-5 years) in a procurement or buying role, ideally in a manufacturing or production environment.
  • Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure favourable terms and conditions.
  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills, capable of handling multiple priorities.
  • Analytical mindset with proficiency in data analysis and problem-solving.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
  • Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and the Microsoft Office suite
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.

 

Attributes

Essential:

  • Good problem-solving skills
  • Self-motivated and able to work on own initiative.
  • Strong communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Completer/Finisher mindset
  • Methodical and organised
  • Open to change

 

Desirable:

  • Experience with lean manufacturing methodologies
  • Experience in strategic sourcing and supplier performance management.
  • Familiarity with environmental and regulatory requirements affecting procurement.

 

Other:

  • Driving license and ability to travel at short notice to suppliers as needed.

 

Development Opportunities:

This role provides the opportunity to work closely with the Head of Procurement, contributing to both operational and strategic initiatives. The right candidate will gain exposure to advanced procurement strategies, supplier relationship management, and cross-functional collaboration, paving the way for future career growth within the organisation.

 

We Want to Hear From You!

If you’re passionate about quality and looking for a role where your skills, ideas, and career can grow, we’d love to talk. Apply today and become part of a team that values your contributions!

Permali is a part of the Diamorph Group
Diamorph group supply advanced material solutions that ensure high performance and peace of mind in extremely demanding industrial applications and environments. The group consists of two manufacturing companies based in Gloucester, United Kingdom, and Horni Briza, Czech Republic, with sales offices and staff in a further four countries.
The Diamorph group engages in development, manufacturing and sales of high-performance products in the areas of fire protection, high temperature process industries, transportation and industrial composites and the customers can be found in more than 60 countries.

To apply for this role, please send your CV to humanresources@permali.co.uk