Lead Buyer - New Product Development Sourcing (Huntingdon, UK)

Lead Buyer – New Product Development

Reporting to the Director, Global Procurement, the Lead Buyer – New Product Development is responsible for driving sourcing and procurement activities across Videojet’s new product development programs—from early supplier engagement through production readiness and launch. The role sits at the center of innovation, partnering closely with Engineering, R&D, Operations, Commodity Management, and global suppliers to ensure new products launch on time, on cost, and with a fully qualified supply base. This position is located in Huntingdon or Nottingham, UK , with a hybrid work arrangement.

Typical Day

• Own sourcing and procurement activities supporting New Product Development programs from concept through production launch.
• Lead supplier selection, qualification, onboarding, and production readiness activities across multiple projects simultaneously.
• Partner closely with Engineering and R&D teams to align sourcing strategies with technical and commercial objectives.
• Drive supplier engagement early in the design phase to improve quality, reduce lead times, and optimize total cost of ownership.
• Negotiate commercial agreements and supplier terms supporting Videojet’s innovation roadmap.
• Collaborate with Commodity Managers, Operations, and Buyer Planners to ensure seamless transition into production.
• Support make-versus-buy analysis, supplier risk evaluation, and sourcing strategy decisions.
• Deliver against launch milestones, cost targets, and supplier readiness KPIs.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience in procurement, sourcing, supply chain, or project management within manufacturing or product development environments.
• Direct experience supporting New Product Development (NPD/NPI) programs.
• Experience with supplier qualification, sourcing strategy, and supplier negotiations.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, R&D, Operations, and Procurement stakeholders.
• Experience managing sourcing activities for technically complex or engineered products.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills within collaborative environments.

Preferred Experience

• Aerospace, automation, industrial equipment, electronics, medical devices, or other complex manufacturing industries.
• ERP systems such as Oracle or SAP.
• Commodity management or supplier development.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.
• High‑mix / low‑volume manufacturing environments.
• Stage‑gate or product lifecycle management processes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with a bonus plan.
• Healthcare and pension benefits.
• 26 days of annual leave.
• Powerful team in a collaborative mentoring environment.
• Career coaching and development opportunities.

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