ADE Power is a leading manufacturer of bespoke power generation and electrical solutions, supporting critical infrastructure projects across the UK and internationally.

This position has become available following the retirement of a valued employee who has dedicated 22 years of service to the business, creating an excellent opportunity for a procurement professional to build on a strong legacy and contribute to the company's continued growth. The Senior Buyer is responsible for the end-to-end management of purchasing activities across a diverse supplier base supporting fabricated assemblies, electrical components, mechanical parts and subcontract services. The role is suitable for someone who can take ownership, build relationships, negotiate commercially, and work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure materials and services are delivered on time, to the required quality, and at the right cost.

• Managing day-to-day purchasing activities and purchase orders.
• Sourcing materials, fabricated parts and services to support production and project requirements.
• Interpreting engineering drawings, specifications and BOMs to support sourcing decisions.
• Obtaining quotations and negotiating pricing, lead times and commercial terms.
• Monitoring supplier performance across cost, quality and delivery metrics.
• Expediting orders and proactively resolving supply chain issues.
• Developing and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
• Supporting supplier development and cost reduction initiatives.
• Identifying and mitigating supply chain risks to ensure continuity of supply.
• Working closely with Engineering, Production, Planning, Quality and Projects teams to support on-time delivery.
• Supporting tendering activities and strategic sourcing projects.
• Contributing to continuous improvement within the procurement function.

Essential

• Previous experience operating at Buyer or Senior Buyer level within manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains and technical procurement.
• Experience sourcing fabricated components, materials, engineered products or subcontract services.
• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Proven supplier negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Experience managing supplier delivery performance and lead times.
• Strong commercial awareness and cost control capability.
• A proactive, hands-on approach to problem solving.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Confidence challenging suppliers and driving performance improvements.

Desirable

• Heavy engineering, power generation, electrical manufacturing, defence, automotive, aerospace or other regulated manufacturing sectors.
• Experience managing strategic suppliers and high value spend categories.
• CIPS qualification (or working towards).

• Location: Office based at our ADE site in Pontefract, South Kirkby
• Shift pattern: Monday – Thursday: 8.00am – 4.30pm, Friday: 8.00am – 1.30pm
• Travel: Travel to supplier and subcontractor sites may be required
• Environment: Based in a modern, air-conditioned office environment, working within a purchasing team of four people. The role involves regular collaboration with internal departments, suppliers, and project stakeholders, with time split between office-based activities and visits to operational and manufacturing areas to support procurement, production, and project requirements.
• Physical requirements: the role involves regular use of a computer, telephone, and other office equipment. Occasional walking between departments to support procurement, production, and project activities.
• Flexibility: Ability to balance office-based administrative duties with regular interaction across manufacturing and operational areas. Flexibility to respond to urgent procurement requirements, supplier issues, production demands, and changing business priorities.

• Communicates supply risks, delivery issues, quality concerns and commercial impacts promptly, ensuring stakeholders have the information needed to make informed decisions.
• Challenges suppliers constructively on cost, quality, lead time and performance, using facts and data to achieve the best outcome for the business.
• Follows procurement processes, approval limits and compliance requirements, escalating risks, non-conformances and contractual concerns when required.
• Works collaboratively with Operations, Engineering, Projects, Quality and Finance to align procurement activities with business and customer requirements.
• Monitors supplier performance and progress against agreed commitments, driving recovery actions and escalating where delivery, quality or cost targets are at risk.
• Identifies opportunities to reduce cost, improve efficiency, strengthen supplier performance and mitigate supply chain risk, supporting recommendations with clear business justification.
• Maintains accurate records, purchasing data and contractual documentation, ensuring decisions are traceable, auditable and supported by appropriate evidence.
• Takes ownership of actions and commitments, provides timely updates on progress, and follows issues through to resolution while supporting colleagues and sharing knowledge across the team.

We believe that great work starts with feeling valued. That’s why we offer a benefits package that supports your wellbeing, rewards your contribution, and helps you thrive both at work and beyond.

Pay that reflects your talent: We offer a competitive salary based on your experience and expertise. The salary range for this role is £35,000 – £45,000, depending on experience.

Holidays that grows with you: Begin with 33 days off (bank holidays included) and earn more the longer you’re with us.

Holiday buy/sell scheme: Need more time off or prefer a bit extra in your pay packet? Our colleagues can buy or sell their holiday days to suit their lifestyle.

Festive downtime: A full Christmas shutdown so you can truly switch off and recharge.

Early finish Fridays: Start your weekend early every week with a 1:30pm finish.

Paid breaks: Two paid 15-minute breaks daily, in addition to your 30 minutes unpaid lunch break.

Health perks: Free workplace health check-ups and Specsavers vouchers.

Family-first care: Whenever you need it, unlimited 24/7 GP access for you and your nearest and dearest.

Smart savings: Salary sacrifice scheme to help you make the most of your earnings.

Peace of mind: Death-in-service cover for added security.

Free parking: Because your commute shouldn’t cost extra.

Settling in made simple: With structured training, helpful colleagues and a clear plan, you’ll feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Room to grow: Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

Supportive culture: A collaborative, inclusive environment where your ideas and contributions are truly valued.