Senior Operational Buyer

About the role

This Role Will Focus On Who we are
Watson-Marlow is an industry-leading technology organisation dedicated to engineering fluid management solutions for the life science and process industries. We help our customers to supply critical products and services that range from fresh drinking water and therapeutic medicines to food products and paper. Through our solutions we help companies to be more efficient, sustainable and profitable.

Responsibilities

• 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 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

Requirements

• 8+ years’ experience of procurement or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment
• Hands-on experience managing complex MRP environment
• Strong sense of ownership for supply continuity
• Ability to analyze data, such as inventory levels, and supplier performance metrics, to make informed decisions and develop effective procurement plans
• Able to manage multiple procurement projects simultaneously requiring excellent organizational skills to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and ensure smooth operations
• Able to communicate as a liaison with suppliers, collaborating with internal teams, and conveying information clearly and concisely
• Able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Able 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 for effective decision-making and supplier interactions

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field
• Professional Certifications: Professional in Supply Chain Management (CSCP), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or similar certifications preferred

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g. Dynamics AX)
• Knowledge of procurement best practices and compliance regulations
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Benefits

• Robust Retirement Plan: Benefit from a 5% employer 401K contribution, plus a 50% match on up to 3% of your contributions for added financial security
• Comprehensive and Supportive Parental Leave: Experience our inclusive, gender-neutral parental leave policy, offering 16 weeks at 100% pay. Upon your return, enjoy a gradual transition with a unique 80% work schedule while still receiving 100% of your pay for the first 6 months
• Grossly Generous Time Off: Enjoy ample time off to recharge and attend to life's circumstances with generous vacation and well-being day, 9 observed holidays, 1 floating holiday day, up to 15 caregiver days, and 80 hours of annual sick leave
• Community Engagement Opportunities: Make a difference with 3 paid volunteer days each year, encouraging you to give back to the community and causes you care about
• And Many More Benefits: Such as an offering of 3 healthcare plans with HSA contributions along with other benefits designed to support your well-being and professional growth

Pay

The salary range for this role is USD 79,000.00 - 100,000.00 Salaried. Final salary offers are determined by multiple factors, including education, experience, internal equity, geographic location, and the candidate’s expertise, and therefore may vary from the range listed. For roles based outside Massachusetts, the applicable salary range may be lower.

Schedule

Full-Time