Purchasing Manager

Internal Job Title: Purchasing Manager

Business: Lucy Electric UK

Location: Thame

Job Reference No: 4476

Job Purpose: The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading the LEUK outsourcing and re-sourcing of components and services with both established and new vendors, ensuring optimal cost of material purchases. This role works alongside global sourcing, cost benchmarking, and strategic sourcing initiatives aligned with the company's long-term goals.

Business Overview: Lucy Electric is an international leader in intelligent secondary power distribution products and solutions, with features such as remote operation and monitoring. Linking energy generation to consumption, the business specialises in high-performance medium and low-voltage switchgear for utility, industrial and commercial applications.

Job Context: The role leads the local Purchasing Department, driving sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and ongoing performance management to ensure quality, cost efficiency, and supply continuity. It works closely with cross functional teams to support product development, quality improvements, and cost reduction initiatives while ensuring full compliance with QMS, EHS, and H&S requirements. The position oversees team performance, training needs, and D365 system accuracy, alongside managing commodity risks, maintaining ERP/vendor records, and providing timely management reporting. It also contributes to budgeting and forecasting activities and promotes a strong culture of safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the local team of the Purchasing Department
• Developing and implementing procurement strategies and contingency plans
• Rationalizing sources of supply for optimal efficiency
• Negotiating and finalizing supplier pricing and terms
• Coordinating with cross-functional teams (Design, R&D, QA, etc.)
• Supporting quality initiatives and vendor development
• Managing supplier relationships and performance
• Monitoring team KPIs and fostering a high-performance culture
• Overseeing QMS & EHS activities related to supply chain
• Driving cost reduction projects and reporting on KPIs
• Managing commodity risk and market dynamics
• Contributing to annual budgeting and cost forecasting
• Maintaining ERP records and vendor pricing
• Ensuring compliance with processes and identifying risks/opportunities
• Identifying and addressing team training needs

System Management & Reporting

• Timely submission of management reports
• Budgeting activities for the Production Department
• Oversight of D365 system activities

Health & Safety

• Promote a safe working environment and ensure compliance with H&S regulations

General Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties as required to enhance efficiency and service quality
• Adhere to company policies and maintain confidentiality

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and decision-making under pressure.
• Strong planning and MRP skills with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Effective problem-solving and analytical capabilities.
• Leadership and team motivation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Understanding of risk management and sustainability in supply chain operations

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Experience

• Minimum: Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering
• Experience: Minimum 10 years in sourcing/purchasing within a manufacturing environment
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably D365)
  • Familiarity with electrical LV switchgear products
  • Strong negotiation and analytical skills