Senior Buyer & SAP SME (Subject Matter Expert)

Job DescriptionAn innovative manufacturing and engineering firm is seeking a Senior Buyer & SAP Subject Matter Expert (SME) to lead procurement activities and act as the go-to authority on SAP within the business. This is a dual-role opportunity, combining strategic sourcing with system ownership and process optimisation.Key Responsibilities: Procurement & Supplier ManagementManage end-to-end procurement of raw materials, components, and services.Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support reliability, performance, and innovation.Conduct supplier reviews and audits to ensure quality, compliance, and performance.Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing to maximise value and continuity of supply.Oversee procurement documentation, contract management, and compliance with internal standards.Performance MonitoringDefine and manage procurement KPIs, such as:Supplier on-time deliveryPurchase price varianceInventory turnoverCost-saving initiativesPO cycle timesAnalyse data to drive procurement improvements and supplier accountability.ERP (SAP) ExpertiseTranslate business requirements into SAP configurations aligned with business needs.Document current and future procurement processes using SAP tools.Lead testing and validation of SAP procurement modules.Own and manage the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) process for procurement systems.Deliver tailored SAP training and develop user documentation.Ensure procurement data quality, integrity, and integration across systems.Champion continuous improvement of SAP functionality and usage across the organisation.RequirementsExperience in a senior procurement role within a manufacturing, engineering, or industrial environment.Hands-on experience with SAP (ideally including implementation or upgrade projects).Strong grasp of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and procurement best practices.Proven ability to track and improve procurement KPIs.Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills.Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.Desirable QualificationsCIPS certification or a relevant degree.Familiarity with SAP S/4HANA or ECC (especially MM, SRM, or supplier portals).Experience in a matrix or group environment.Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement accreditation.This company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.GoLive Recruitment is a trusted supplier of permanent, contract, and interim recruitment services, specialising exclusively on the IFS ERP ecosystem.

Created: 2025-06-14