Purchasing Manager
Recruiter: 1492 Search
Location: Bolton
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000
Application date: 6th Aug 2025
A leading precision engineering SME, supplying critical components into global markets including aerospace, defence, oil & gas, power generation, automotive, and marine, is looking for an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead its procurement function.
With a strong people-first culture, we invest heavily in training, innovation, and world-class facilities to support long-term growth and excellence. This is a key leadership role driving performance, cost-down initiatives, and strategic sourcing in a dynamic and highly regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead direct and indirect procurement across a complex, technical supply base
• Deliver cost-saving and value-engineering initiatives while maintaining world-class quality
• Manage global supplier relationships and ensure compliance with international standards
• Lead, develop, and mentor a small procurement team
• Oversee single-source critical suppliers and build robust contingency strategies
• Contribute to digital transformation within the procurement function
• Work closely with quality and engineering teams to ensure sourcing aligns with stringent technical specs
About You:
• 5+ years’ experience in procurement leadership, ideally within precision manufacturing or engineering
• Track record of cost optimisation, global sourcing, and managing regulated supply chains
• Strong commercial and negotiation skills with an eye for risk mitigation
• Excellent team leadership skills with the ability to foster a collaborative and high-performance culture
• Experience with ERP systems and digital procurement platforms
• Understanding of ISO 9001 / AS 9100 or similar regulated standards
Preferred Qualifications:
• Degree in Business, Engineering, or Supply Chain Management
• Professional certification (CIPS or equivalent) is advantageous