Carl Zeiss Microscopy is seeking an experienced Lead Buyer to join its Supply Chain team in Cambourne. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a global organisation renowned for its high-technology systems and innovation.
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a dedicated commodity area and developing global procurement strategies across multiple ZEISS sites in the UK and Germany. This role plays a key part in ensuring supply security, managing supplier relationships, and supporting the delivery of complex, high-technology products.
The Role
As a Lead Buyer, you will work closely with colleagues across Supply Chain, R&D, NPI and Production to manage supplier performance, drive innovation and ensure the resilience of the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement cross-site commodity strategies across ZEISS locations in the UK and Germany
- Conduct global procurement market analysis and identify suitable suppliers
- Select, qualify and manage suppliers in collaboration with production teams
- Ensure supply security by monitoring risks and maintaining a resilient supply chain
- Identify and onboard new suppliers to drive innovation and competitiveness
- Lead contract negotiations with national and international suppliers
- Manage pricing benchmarks and cost negotiations to achieve savings targets
- Collaborate with operational purchasing, strategic purchasing and NPI teams
- Support the development of standardised supply chain processes, KPIs and IT tools
About You
We are looking for a commercially minded professional with strong analytical and negotiation skills who thrives in a collaborative, international environment.
- Strong technical knowledge within your assigned commodity area
- Experience purchasing electronics and cables
- Experience working with complex or high-technology products
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Strong negotiation skills, including experience with international contracts
- Analytical and structured approach to problem solving
- Ability to develop and implement innovative supply chain solutions
- Proficiency with SAP (particularly MM modules) and Microsoft Office
- Ability to manage and analyse large data sets and present key insights
Qualifications
- 5+ years’ experience in international supply chain management or procurement
- Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience)
- Fluent English (German language skills are advantageous)
Additional Information
- ✈ Travel: Occasional travel to Germany and supplier locations (up to 20%)
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