Operational Buyer

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the end-to-end order lifecycle from placement through to delivery

Manage the end-to-end order lifecycle from placement through to delivery

Expedite supplier orders and proactively manage delivery performance

Monitor supplier commitments, identify risks and implement mitigation actions

Manage and resolve material shortages to minimise impact on production

Build and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers

Conduct supplier performance reviews and monitor key performance metrics

Maintain accurate supplier and material master data within SAP

Support forecasting and demand planning activities

Investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies and payment-related queries

Monitor pricing changes and supplier performance trends

Create and maintain procurement dashboards and reporting tools

Collaborate closely with Production Planning, Supply Chain and Manufacturing teams

Identify opportunities to improve and automate procurement processes

Participate in continuous improvement and value stream mapping activities

Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures and regulatory requirements

• Work closely with international suppliers to ensure material availability and on-time delivery

What We're Looking For

Experience as an Operational Buyer, Buyer or Procurement Specialist, ideally with 3+ years' experience

Experience managing the full order lifecycle from placement through to delivery

Strong supplier management and relationship-building skills

• Proven experience expediting orders and managing supplier performance

Proven experience expediting orders and managing supplier performance

Experience resolving material shortages and supply chain issues

SAP experience, ideally as a confident day-to-day user

Experience working within a manufacturing or engineering environment

Strong stakeholder management and communication skills

• Ability to prioritise multiple tasks and work effectively within a fast-paced environment

Ability to prioritise multiple tasks and work effectively within a fast-paced environment

Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to analyse and manage large volumes of data

Ability to analyse and manage large volumes of data

Confidence escalating issues and driving resolutions when required

Experience working with international suppliers would be advantageous

If you want to make a real impact within an international manufacturing supply chain and build your career with ZEISS, we'd love to hear from you.