Strategic Buyer

Fareham, Hampshire
Saab UK

Introduction

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, meaning we can offer a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We currently employ over 500 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

As part of the global entity Saab AB, Saab UK combines the innovative spirit of a start-up with the resources and expertise of a larger corporation. Globally, Saab employs over 22,000 people, with operations on every continent. Our partnerships with UK customers and industry mean we are able to deliver innovative solutions to complex challenges, anticipating the threats of tomorrow. We invest 23% of our annual revenue into research and development, collaborating with a range of partners including industry and academia.

Saab is a company that offers our employees plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing a workplace where individuals can thrive professionally, paving the way for future progression. We also recognise the need for a healthy work-life balance to ensure our staff have the chance to live a fulfilling life beyond the workplace.

Role Overview:

The Strategic Buyer plays a crucial role in an electrical assembly manufacturing company operating in the defence industry. Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, this role is responsible for strategic procurement activities, with a focus on purchasing Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), Printed Circuit Assemblies (PCAs), as well as machined and fabricated components. The Strategic Buyer collaborates with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of high-quality materials and components, while also driving supplier relationship management and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Procurement:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for PCBs, PCAs, and machined/fabricated components, considering quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, conducting assessments and negotiations to establish favourable terms and agreements.
• Collaborate with engineering and design teams to support new product development and technology roadmaps through effective sourcing strategies.
• Stay updated with market trends, industry regulations, and emerging technologies related to PCBs, PCAs, and machining/fabrication.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, fostering collaboration, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Conduct regular supplier performance evaluations and provide feedback to suppliers to ensure adherence to quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Collaborate with suppliers to identify opportunities for cost reduction, value engineering, and supplier-driven innovation.
• Resolve any supplier-related issues or disputes, working closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to achieve timely resolutions.

Cost Management and Negotiation:

• Conduct cost analysis and market assessments to identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigate price increases.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to secure competitive pricing and favorable agreements.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through value engineering, alternate sourcing, and process optimization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as Engineering and Finance, to establish cost targets and monitor cost-saving initiatives.

Supply Chain Optimization:

• Work closely with production planning, inventory management, and logistics teams to ensure material availability and optimize supply chain efficiency.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify opportunities for lead time reduction, inventory optimization, and supply chain risk mitigation.
• Implement and maintain effective systems and processes for demand forecasting, materials planning, and supplier performance tracking.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement processes, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce cycle times.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Strategic Buyer or Purchasing professional in the defence industry, with a focus on PCBs, PCAs, and machined/fabricated components.
• Strong knowledge of the procurement process, strategic sourcing methodologies, and supplier management.
• Familiarity with defence industry regulations, standards, and quality requirements.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills to interact effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to conduct cost analysis, market assessments, and supplier evaluations.
• Proficiency in using procurement and ERP systems for sourcing, purchasing, and data analysis.
• Strong project management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.