Technical Buyer

BUSINESS FUNCTION :Engineering
GRADE : ML1/SB2
SALARY : Circa £40,000 per annum
ROLE TYPE : Hybrid
HOURS : 37 per week
REPORTS TO : Supplier Performance Manager

Are you ready to drive strategic sourcing and procurement excellence in rail operations? We’re looking for a Technical Buyer to manage key supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure the timely procurement of essential rail spares. You’ll work closely with engineering, procurement, and supply chain teams to optimise costs and service levels, playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of our rail services.

Can You See Yourself?

• Leading Procurement Excellence? Managing procurement activities and supplier negotiations to secure quality, cost-efficient, and timely supplies.
• Sourcing Sustainably? Identifying and developing sustainable sources of supply that support the long-term goals of the business.
• Ensuring Compliance? Ensuring supplier contracts meet quality, cost, and regulatory standards, while adhering to all relevant requirements.
• Collaborating with Engineering? Working closely with engineering teams to manage obsolescence issues and ensure high-quality supplies.
• Driving Continuous Improvement? Analysing supplier performance and implementing strategies for improvement to enhance supply chain efficiency.

Are you:

• Experienced in Procurement? You have strong experience in procurement and supplier management, with a proven track record of successful negotiations.
• A Skilled Negotiator? Your expertise in negotiation and contract management ensures value, compliance, and efficiency in supplier agreements.
• Tech-Savvy? You are familiar with ERP/MRP systems like SAP and Maximo, and can leverage these tools to optimise procurement processes.
• Qualification-driven? You hold or are working towards CIPS/CILT Level 5 or 6, demonstrating your expertise in procurement and logistics.
• Experienced in Rail or Engineering? This is essential, experience in rail or engineering sectors will help you thrive in this role.

What’s in it for you? At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Electric Car Scheme: Lease a brand new electric or plugin hybrid car.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern? We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment. Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B - we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview. We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment. No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.