Procurement Specialist

Job Title: Procurement Specialist
Location: Newcastle, UK
Job Type: Full-time contract, 12 months
Work Model: Hybrid (4 days/week onsite)

Responsibilities:
Negotiate best cost & delivery, with suppliers; place and follow up on PO's for assigned commodities
Manage effective working relationships with suppliers for PO execution
Manage problems and schedule changes to ensure on time delivery
Update ERP to ensure accurate planning
Develops new solutions under guidance and/or in a team setting
Balance both tactical execution with strategic initiatives necessary to drive cost and lead time reduction
Works together with high level individuals within the business
Work with Commodity Buyers on technical and commercial developments to develop awareness of manufacturing processes and improve product knowledge
Actively participate in supplier performance reviews
Contribute to project as a team member or leads small projects
Manage the wing to wing procurement activities for assigned commodities.
Apply sourcing policy, interface between supplier and entity with respect to specifications and budgets.
Requires developed and strong foundation of function skills and knowledge of relevant purchasing and sourcing concepts.

Expected Role Challenges:
Managing supplier cost, delivery performance, and lead times.
Resolving supply chain disruptions and schedule changes.
Ensuring ERP data accuracy to support planning and procurement.
Balancing day-to-day purchasing activities with strategic cost reduction initiatives.
Building and maintaining effective supplier relationships.
Collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders and Commodity Buyers.

Essential:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience as a Commodity Buyer, within an Engineering or Manufacturing environment.
A demonstrable technical mindset and approach with attention to detail.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently, motivate and influence others.
Ability to cope with multiple complex situations daily.
Great problem-solving skills.
Negotiation expertise.
Fluent in English (spoken and written).

Desirable:
Tenacious and resilient, with a strong drive to achieve results and overcome challenges.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
Strong stakeholder management capabilities, building and maintaining productive relationships across all levels.
Able to work independently, demonstrating initiative, accountability, and sound judgment.
Collaborative team player, contributing positively to team objectives while fostering a supportive work environment.

Soft Skills:
Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
Stakeholder management and relationship building
Tenacity and resilience
Ability to work independently and take initiative
Collaborative team player mindset
Interpersonal and networking skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Adaptability and flexibility
Influencing and negotiation skills

Tools or Software (Required/Preferred):
Knowledge of Oracle ERP is advantageous, although experience with comparable ERP systems would be equally valuable.

Industry Background or Experience (Required/Preferred):
Experience in technical procurement (in industries like manufacturing, renewable, nuclear)