Procurement Specialist

Responsibilities

The Procurement Specialist is responsible for managing the procurement lifecycle, including market analysis, supplier negotiations, and ensuring cost-effective purchasing. They will also maintain supplier relationships, manage ERP data, and ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory standards.

Requirements

The role requires expertise in supplier risk management, total cost of ownership, and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies. Candidates must be proficient in ERP systems and capable of documenting and maintaining procurement standard operating procedures.

Skills

• Procurement
• Market analysis
• Supplier negotiation
• Supply chain management
• Cost reduction
• Risk assessment
• Due diligence
• Contract management
• ERP systems
• Epicor
• Lean principles
• Six Sigma
• Total cost of ownership
• SOP documentation
• Invoice query resolution
• Data maintenance

About this role

Procurement Specialist
Department: Procurement
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Rochdale
Reporting To: Kevin Gathergood
Compensation: £35,000 - £40,000 / year

Description
Job Title: Procurement Specialist
Company: Salt Separation Services
Location: Rochdale, on-site
Department: Procurement
Compensation: £35,000 - £40,000

Salt Separation Services have been leading in desalination technology for over 35 years; specialising in the engineering, commissioning and servicing of reverse osmosis (RO) plants that provide drinkable water solutions across a variety of industries. Our systems are used in sectors including naval, oil, cruise ships, and more. We’re committed to designing reliable, high-quality RO and water filtration solutions that meet the unique demands of each industry and customer we serve. Join us on the path to simplifying access to water solutions for a broad and varied client base!

Key Responsibilities
Ensure value for money throughout the procurement lifecycle, maximising profit margins by reducing cost of sales.
Benchmark existing pricing and conduct market analysis to improve purchasing leverage.
Undertake trade and market research to identify new or improved suppliers and address supply gaps.
Support make-versus-buy decisions through robust cost and market insight.
Obtain multiple quotations to ensure competitiveness and informed procurement decisions.
Lead and support supplier negotiations, including pricing, lead times, terms, and responses to supplier price increase requests.
Confirm all purchase orders in writing and ensure accurate, timely PO entry.
Control payment terms in line with company financial strategy and ethical payment standards.
Establish, develop, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
Conduct supplier risk assessments, due diligence, and ensure compliance with contractual, legal, and regulatory requirements.
Act as an SME in supplier risk, total cost of ownership (TCO), and waste reduction, aligned with Lean and Six Sigma principles.
Support the development and negotiation of supplier contracts, supply agreements, and SLAs.
Escalate supply chain risks or issues promptly to relevant stakeholders.
Monitor and support supplier setup and master data maintenance within the ERP system (Epicor).
Maintain accurate procurement documentation and support invoice query resolution.
Assist with external audits through accurate record-keeping and sample preparation.
Document, review, and maintain procurement SOPs, ensuring they remain current and effective.
Ensure all procurement activity complies with internal policies, ethical standards, and legal obligations.
Promote continuous improvement, Lean working practices, and sustainability initiatives

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Why SaltSep?
Benefits:

A value at Salt Sep is family, and as such, we have designed benefits package which we believe give our people the very best support we can professionally, personally and for your future.

About Salt Separation Services

Mechanical Or Industrial Engineering · 51-200 employees · headquartered in Rochdale, Lancs · founded 1990