Procurement Specialist

Procurement Specialist - High-Growth AI Company (Near Cambridge)My client is a rapidly growing AI and deep-tech company based in the Greater Cambridge area. They are seeking a Procurement Specialist to take ownership of sourcing, purchasing, and supplier management across a wide range of technical and operational categories.This is a hands-on, high-impact role supporting a fast-scaling organisation, ensuring engineering, R&D, and operations teams have the materials, components, and equipment required to deliver cutting-edge products.Key ResponsibilitiesProcurement & Purchasing Manage the full procurement lifecycle: sourcing, quoting, negotiating, purchasing, and tracking orders Identify and qualify reliable suppliers for electronics, optics, mechanical parts, test equipment, and wider operational needs Raise POs, manage approvals, and maintain accurate purchasing and order-tracking records Monitor stock levels and place replenishment orders for critical componentsSupplier & Vendor Management Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers Evaluate supplier performance, reliability, pricing, and lead times Negotiate pricing, terms, SLAs, and commercial agreements Ensure compliance with internal policies, export controls, and regulatory standardsOperational Support & Logistics Coordinate shipments, deliveries, customs documentation, and logistics arrangements Work closely with engineering and operations teams to understand technical requirements and timelines Support R&D, warehouse, and stores teams with timely procurement and delivery of components Maintain accurate records of assets, tooling, and critical componentsProcess Development & Governance Develop scalable procurement processes suited to a fast-growing deep-tech environment Improve purchasing workflows, documentation, and approval pathways Support cost control, budgeting, and forecasting in collaboration with Finance Ensure procurement operates in line with company policies, ethical standards, and defence/security guidelinesRequirementsEssential Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain, or buying roles-ideally within engineering, manufacturing, electronics, or technology Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms Highly organised with strong attention to detail Ability to interpret technical specifications or collaborate closely with engineers to clarify requirements Confident managing multiple suppliers, quotes, and orders at once Good understanding of procurement systems, POs, invoicing workflows, and inventory processes Strong communication and stakeholder management skills Proactive, solutions-focused, able to work independently in a fast-paced environmentDesirable Experience in defence, aerospace, robotics, electronics, manufacturing, or hardware-focused tech Knowledge of export controls (ITAR/EAR), restricted materials, or specialist compliance Familiarity with technical components such as RF parts, optics, PCBs, cables, sensors, or mechanical hardware Experience using ERP/MRP systems or procurement software Understanding of logistics, customs documentation, and international shipping CIPS qualification or progress toward certificationWhat's on Offer An opportunity to build procurement processes from the ground up High visibility across engineering, R&D, and operational teams The chance to be part of a fast-growing AI organisation working on cutting-edge technology A dynamic, hands-on environment ideal for someone who thrives in a scaling, innovative businessInterested? Please Click Apply NowProcurement Specialist