Sr. Operational Buyer

Company: Watson-Marlow

Location: [Not Specified]

About Watson-Marlow:

Watson-Marlow is a leading technology organization dedicated to engineering fluid management solutions for the life science and process industries. We empower our customers to supply critical products and services, from fresh drinking water and therapeutic medicines to food and paper, helping them become more efficient, sustainable, and profitable.

About the Role:

The Sr. Operational Buyer is responsible for the day-to-day purchasing execution to ensure continuity of supply, on-time delivery, and stable operational performance at the site or regional level. This role focuses on execution, supplier follow-up, and delivery performance, operating within the framework and strategies defined by Strategic/Category Procurement.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Purchasing Execution & Supply Continuity: Execute purchase orders in line with MRP signals, demand plans, and agreed contracts. Ensure on-time, in-full (OTIF) delivery to support production and customer commitments. Act as the first line of response for shortages, delays, and supply disruptions. Expedite critical materials and manage short-term supply risks.
• Supplier Operational Management: Manage day-to-day supplier interactions (order confirmation, delivery dates, quantities). Monitor and improve supplier delivery performance. Drive corrective actions with suppliers for late deliveries, shortages, or non-conformities. Escalate recurring or critical issues through the defined escalation process.
• Collaboration & Interface Management: Work closely with Planning, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality teams. Provide operational input and feedback to Category Managers / Global Category Leads. Support supplier transitions, localization initiatives, and dual-sourcing actions. Contribute to New Product Introduction (NPI) execution by ensuring operational readiness of suppliers.
• Systems, Data & Process Compliance: Execute purchasing activities in ERP systems (e.g., Dynamics AX) with high data accuracy. Maintain accurate pricing, lead times, order quantities, and confirmations. Apply standard procurement processes, governance, and ways of working. Support continuous improvement initiatives within Operational Procurement.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You'll Need to Be Successful:

• 8+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain within a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience managing a complex MRP environment.
• Strong sense of ownership for supply continuity.
• Ability to analyze data (inventory levels, supplier performance metrics) to make informed decisions and develop effective procurement plans.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple procurement projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and ensure smooth operations.
• Effective communication skills, acting as a liaison with suppliers and collaborating with internal teams.
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing priorities, market conditions, and project requirements.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and familiarity with materials and components being procured is a plus.
• Uphold ethical standards and integrity, which are paramount in procurement.

Benefits:

• [Not Specified]

Company Values:

• [Not Specified]