Summary: The EU Direct Commodity Buyer will play a crucial role in establishing a sustainable European battery ecosystem by managing direct material commodities, primarily focused on production equipment. This position requires a blend of strategic oversight and detailed execution, working closely with global purchasing and design teams. The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation skills and a technical understanding of supply chains within the lithium-ion battery manufacturing sector. The role is based in Sunderland, UK, and involves collaboration across various European sites.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage direct material commodities within Electrode, Cell, Module, and Pack categories across European sites.
• Gain market intelligence and develop an optimal Direct Strategy Plan for the EU/UK.
• Build and maintain connections with Global Purchasing to develop suppliers locally and globally.
• Lead strategic tenders and negotiate contracts with suppliers.
• Drive cost reductions and optimize future costs through strategic actions.
• Support the Senior Purchasing Manager on commercial contracting focused on localization.
• Research opportunities to reduce costs within the supply chain.
• Assess and evaluate suppliers for performance improvements.
• Support project purchasing and supply chain teams to enhance logistics and avoid production delays.

Key Skills:

• Proven purchasing experience in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Effective analytical skills for evaluating commodity market trends.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines with strong prioritization skills.
• Industrial awareness of supply markets and supplier capabilities.
• Inquisitive attitude towards continuous improvement.
• University qualification and membership in CIPS (or working towards it).
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Power BI, and SAP.

Salary (Rate): undetermined

City: Sunderland

Country: United Kingdom

Working Arrangements: undetermined

IR35 Status: undetermined

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: Other