Filtronic is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced RF, microwave and millimetre-wave electronics. We support customers across defence, space and critical communications markets, delivering high-reliability solutions through engineering excellence and a collaborative, agile culture.

As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Purchasing Lead to join our busy and fast-moving Supply Chain team.

The Role

Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, the Purchasing Lead will take ownership of a portfolio of key suppliers, managing supplier relationships and supporting the delivery of our operational and commercial objectives.

This is a key role within our purchasing function, working closely with Project Management, Engineering, Quality, Business Development and other stakeholders to ensure supplier performance meets the needs of the business.

You will be responsible for managing key supplier accounts, supporting supplier development and identifying opportunities to improve performance, value and supply chain resilience. You will also play an important role in developing our long-term procurement strategy and supporting future business growth.

We are looking for a confident and commercially minded negotiator who can build strong, long-term supplier relationships while constructively challenging suppliers to deliver better value and performance.

The role will support our UK sites and will involve travel to suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage relationships with key suppliers, acting as the primary point of contact for commercial and operational matters.
• Act as a lead purchasing contact for Project Managers on dedicated projects, providing input into project plans, reporting on material status and issuing works orders where required.
• Monitor and report supplier performance against agreed KPIs, driving continuous improvement and ensuring actions are followed through to completion.
• Identify supply chain risks, develop appropriate mitigations and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
• Resolve commercial and operational supply chain issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Support the evaluation, due diligence and onboarding of new suppliers, including issuing NDAs and relevant onboarding documentation.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Filtronic's long-term procurement strategy.
• Issue RFQs and RFIs in support of current business requirements and future demand.
• Conduct competitive tenders, analysing quotations and presenting recommendations to key stakeholders to support best-value supplier selection.
• Negotiate commercial terms and best-value outcomes for the business and support the implementation of agreed supplier terms.
• Capture relevant supplier export control information and highlight requirements to the wider business.
• Conduct supplier visits and produce clear and concise visit reports.
• Work collaboratively with stakeholders across the business to understand demand, priorities and requirements placed on suppliers.
• Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve supplier-related issues and drive improvements in supplier performance.