Senior Buyer/Procurement Professional
// Role Summary
Join BAE Systems as a Buyer in Rochester, Kent, to take ownership of the end-to-end procurement process, negotiating with suppliers and driving cost savings. This onsite role offers a salary range of £35,000-£45,000, with the exact figure dependent on experience.
// Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end procurement process from sourcing to delivery.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with external suppliers.
- Act as a key liaison between suppliers and the business.
- Monitor budgets, identify cost-saving opportunities, and track supplier performance.
- Maintain accurate data in the Oracle ERP system.
- Support continuous improvement and mentor junior staff.
// Role Specification
About the Role
Join BAE Systems in Rochester, Kent, as a Buyer and take ownership of the entire procurement lifecycle. You will work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure the efficient sourcing and delivery of vital goods and services. This role is crucial for supporting procurement best practices and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives, while also collaborating with and supporting the wider procurement team.
Core Duties
- Negotiate terms, conditions, pricing, and contracts with suppliers.
- Serve as the primary point of contact between suppliers and the business, fostering effective relationships.
- Monitor budgets for purchase orders and identify opportunities for cost savings through skilled negotiation.
- Track supplier performance, communicate key performance indicators (KPIs), and address issues at a senior level.
- Maintain accurate supplier order books and data within the Oracle ERP system.
- Support the implementation of corporate procurement processes, including strategic supplier, sub-contract, and commodity management.
- Coach and train junior staff on procurement processes and procedures, and assist with audits and improvement plans.
About the Procurement Team
The Rochester site is a diverse organisation with a global customer base, specialising in commercial and defence electronics. Our products are critical for high integrity controls, active inceptor systems, head-up displays, head-mounted displays, power and propulsion systems, and avionics market services. We operate across the full product lifecycle, from cutting-edge research to aftermarket support, with a wide network of suppliers across the UK, Europe, USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Japan.
We are experiencing significant growth driven by work that is critical to national interest and security, as well as essential for business performance. To support this growth, the company is investing in our site with an extensive refurbishment.
About You
You will have proven experience in buying, procurement, and purchasing. Essential skills include the ability to lead negotiations and manage supplier relationships effectively. While not essential, an HNC/HND in Business Studies or equivalent, or being CIPS qualified, is advantageous.
Why BAE Systems?
At BAE Systems, you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. We offer lifelong learning, meaningful work, and an environment where you can grow your career with confidence. You’ll be empowered to be your best, recognised for your contributions, and enjoy rewards tailored to your needs, alongside support for your financial and personal wellbeing. We promote a balanced lifestyle within a supportive culture that embraces sustainable working practices and a strong sense of shared purpose, ensuring you feel a sense of belonging and pride in the difference you make.
Inclusivity and Security
We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.
Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Factors such as your nationality, previous nationalities, and place of birth can affect your eligibility for certain roles. All applicants must achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard as a minimum. Many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, which typically involves 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK, depending on the vetting level.
Location: Rochester, Kent (Onsite)
Salary: £35,000 – £45,000 (dependent on experience and seniority)
Closing Date: 10th July 2026 (We reserve the right to close this vacancy early)