EU Direct Commodity Buyer

Outline and Responsibilities:

• EU Commodity Buyer responsibilities will consist of managing direct material commodities within Electrode, Cell, Module and Pack categories covering all European sites e.g. UK, France, Spain, etc.
• Gain market intelligence and become an expert in your chosen commodity, working with global purchase and design teams to develop an optimal Direct Strategy Plan for EU/UK
• Have technical understanding of supply roadmap identifying key commodities and suppliers within UK/EU region [(e.g. cell ASSY lines, vendor tooling, etc.)] considering key supply risk factors (e.g. REACH, capacity, RVC, etc.)
• Build and maintain strong connections with Global Purchasing to identify strategies and to develop suppliers both globally and locally in EU/UK
• Lead strategic tenders (RFI-RFQ), develop strong negotiations plans, identify supplier, and finalize contracting (Nomination – MPA).
• Influence both internal functions, and external suppliers to drive YoY cost reductions, and act strategically to secure future cost optimization.
• Support EU Direct Senior Purchasing Manager on commercial contracting specifically focused on localisation with EU/UK suppliers for new and existing sourcing projects.
• Research and evaluate areas of opportunity and reduce costs where possible within end-end supply chain for current BOM and new BOM activities
• Develop ideas and strategies to improve operational efficiency, add value, aid business performance, and work towards a strategy of continuous improvement.
• Assess and evaluate suppliers to undertake performance reviews driving improvement activities.
• Support project purchasing and supply chain teams across EU/UK to ensure AESC maximise supply logistics improvements and avoid production delays.

Background and Experience Required:

• Proven purchasing experience within a lithium-ion battery manufacturing environment is desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a vision for success, ability to take responsibility and develop strong/efficient negotiation plans.
• Excellent communication skills (English) are essential to this role to build relationships with global functions (purchase, design, SQD) and suppliers in Asia.
• Effective analytical skills to evaluate commodity market trends and report to EU/UK leadership
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and have a good sense of priorities
• strong industrial awareness by investigating new supply markets to assess existing and new supplier capabilities to further strength cost reductions and supply rationalization.
• Have an inquisitive and open attitude to exploring new ideas and willingness for continuous improvement.
• Language fluent in English is essential (C1 level)

Additional:

• Degree University qualification is essential.
• Membership of Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) is desirable.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, Power Point and Power BI, SAP
• Travel will be required within EU and Asia.
• Full driving licence