Coherent UK
Purchasing Manager
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Coherent Corp is the global leader in photonics, designing and manufacturing advanced laser, optical, and materials technologies. Our innovations power semiconductor manufacturing, AI infrastructure, advanced communications, and precision industrial systems worldwide. With a global footprint and cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D, we’re shaping the future of high-tech industries.
In Scotland, our site is a key centre for laser and ultrafast laser technology, specialising in the development, manufacture, and lifecycle support of advanced laser systems for demanding industrial and scientific applications. Working closely with teams across our global network, we combine deep engineering expertise with collaborative innovation to deliver high-performance, reliable laser solutions with real-world impact.
Purchasing Manager
The Role
Are you a strategic purchasing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment?
As Purchasing Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring the successful sourcing and supply of materials, components, and equipment that support our operations in Scotland and our global business. Reporting to the Senior Materials Manager, you'll work cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Strategic Purchasing teams to deliver cost, quality, and service improvements while building strong supplier partnerships.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced procurement professional to influence business performance, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and contribute to the success of a global technology leader.
What you will be doing...
- Lead and develop the site's purchasing function, ensuring alignment with business objectives and procurement best practices.
- Drive continuous improvement in cost, quality, supplier performance, and strategic sourcing activities.
- Oversee purchasing activities and approval processes to ensure the timely and efficient procurement of materials, components, and equipment.
- Build strong relationships with key suppliers while supporting strategic global sourcing initiatives.
- Monitor supplier performance, contract compliance, delivery schedules, and commercial agreements.
- Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, and Supply Chain teams to ensure inventory levels and production requirements are effectively supported.
- Support and mentor Buyers, providing guidance on supplier management, escalation issues, negotiations, and continuous improvement projects.
- Lead negotiations and contribute to commercial decisions that positively impact cost and supply security.
- Establish and maintain standard costs in line with company procedures and financial objectives.
- Drive supply chain improvement projects and help identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, resilience, and customer satisfaction.
- Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence within your team and across the organisation.
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About You
We're looking for a proactive and commercially minded purchasing professional who combines strong leadership skills with strategic thinking and a passion for continuous improvement.
You will bring:
- A degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience gained through professional expertise and training.
- Significant experience within Purchasing, Procurement, or Supply Chain Management in a manufacturing environment.
- A proven track record of leading, developing, and motivating high-performing teams.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, material planning, production control, and supplier management.
- Experience reviewing and negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
- Strong analytical and commercial acumen, with an understanding of cost management, profitability, and business performance.
- Knowledge of global supply chain trends and their impact on sourcing strategies and supplier networks.
- Experience working with MRP/ERP systems, with Oracle experience considered advantageous.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other business systems.
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a dynamic environment.
- Strong negotiation, decision-making, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of a global organisation.
- The ability to work effectively across cultures, functions, and geographies while driving positive change and collaboration.
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Most importantly, you'll be someone who enjoys taking ownership, building strong partnerships, and helping create supply chain solutions that support the growth and success of a world-leading technology business.
Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position:
🤝 Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
✨ Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
🎯 Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
🌍 Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
🚀 Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
APPLICATION & SELECTION
Current employees who wish to apply should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.
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