Strategic NPI Buyer

Cubed Talent are delighted to partner with a world-class engineering and machine tool manufacturer to recruit a Senior Strategic Buyer who will be instrumental in driving engineering procurement and supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) projects. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, supply chain and product development, ideal for a technically minded procurement professional who enjoys working with complex components, tight tolerances and innovative product lifecycles. The Opportunity As Senior Strategic Buyer, you'll take ownership of sourcing precision‑engineered components and specialist services that enable the design and build of cutting‑edge machine tools. You'll work closely with Engineering during early design stages, influence supplier selection for new products and ensure components meet stringent technical and quality requirements. Your work will directly impact manufacturability, cost, lead times and future supply chain robustness for new product designs. This is a role where engineering understanding, commercial acumen and project influence all come together. Key Responsibilities Engineering Procurement – Core Focus Collaborate closely with Design and Engineering teams to understand technical requirements, drawings and specifications. Convert engineering needs into commercially sound sourcing strategies for complex, precision‑engineered components. Ensure suppliers can support special processes, tight tolerances, advanced materials and quality‑critical manufacturing. Support the development of costed BOMs, challenging cost drivers and identifying value engineering opportunities. New Product Introduction (NPI) Act as procurement lead during early NPI and design phases, advising on sourcing feasibility, risk, cost and manufacturability. Identify and onboard new suppliers to support emerging technologies, specialist capabilities and future product pipeline. Coordinate with engineering and quality teams to ensure new suppliers meet required regulatory and quality standards (ISO, AS9100 etc.). Support prototype builds, ensuring materials and components are sourced on time and to specification. Input into design‑for‑purchase, helping shape designs that optimise lead time, cost and supply chain resilience. Strategic & Operational Procurement Develop and implement category strategies aligned with engineering requirements. Lead tendering, supplier selection and contract negotiation. Manage supplier relationships through structured SRM, reviews and site visits. Conduct market research to uncover new technologies, innovations and supply options. Ensure all supplier contracts meet legal, regulatory and company compliance requirements. Monitor supplier performance and apply KPI data to drive improvement and development. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Work with Engineering, Quality, Production and Finance teams to ensure procurement aligns with business objectives. Promote sourcing best practice across the organisation and raise awareness of procurement's role within the NPI process. Uphold ethical procurement practices and maintain the highest standards of business integrity. What You'll Bring Strong engineering buying experience in a manufacturing or precision engineering environment. Proven involvement in NPI or early product development cycles. Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications and quality standards. Solid understanding of strategic sourcing, supplier development and cost analysis. Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle). Excellent negotiation, communication and influencing skills. Degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business or a related field (CIPS desirable). Commercially astute, organised and proactive, with a strong problem‑solving mindset. Why Join? This is a brilliant opportunity to play a key role in the creation of next‑generation engineered products, shaping sourcing decisions that influence innovation, quality and long‑term performance. Alongside a competitive salary of c £50k and an annual bonus of up to 15% of salary, the role offers: 33 days annual leave Flexible working hours Bupa health insurance & health cash plan Enhanced pension Life assurance Be part of a team where engineering excellence starts with exceptional procurement. Apply now via Cubed Talent or contact Jess for a confidential discussion on (phone number removed) #J-18808-Ljbffr