Buyer - Directs (Contract)

We are seeking a Buyer - Directs for an operational procurement role focused on P2P execution, supplier communication, and tactical sourcing support across Humanoid’s direct material commodity. The role supports the SCM Lead, you will partner with teams in London, Boston, and Vancouver in delivering continuity of supply, cost performance, and operational excellence across Mechanical, Electronics, Electromechanical, Cables & Harnessing, and Software commodities

Conduct market research to identify cost‑saving opportunities and understand price trends and supply risks.

Support sourcing initiatives, including RFx processes, negotiations, and contract execution.

Drive cost, lead‑time, and efficiency improvements with measurable KPIs.

Capture business requirements and translate them into clear commercial packages.

Negotiate optimal commercial terms (pricing, payment terms, lead times, Ts & Cs).

Conduct price analysis and cost‑breakdown validation to ensure fair and equitable pricing.

Process requisitions and purchase orders in line with procurement policies.

Maintain accurate PO and supplier data within SAP and associated systems.

Resolve supplier performance issues, discrepancies and understand the escalation process

Communicate to internal stakeholders as appropriate.

Minimize risk to continuity of supply by carrying out supplier risk assessments for the portfolio’s suppliers and implementing corrective actions as required.

Support continuous improvement of procurement processes, documentation, and tools.

Deliver KPI’s relating to cost, cash, quality, service and continuity of supply for the commodity proposals.

Run MRP (SAP) and ensure timely availability of direct goods and services.

Experience of implementing Supplier Relationship Management techniques / tools with suppliers (RMMs, Score Cards, Monthly Performance Reviews (MPRs), Communications Plans, Risk Management, DnB report, Sanctions list etc.)

Support Production, Engineering, Quality, and Planning teams to meet manufacturing needs.

Directly support the SCM Lead in the regional area

This role supports the Commodity teams in sourcing activities but does not own commodity strategy or supplier selection decisions

3+ years of direct procurement experience, ideally in manufacturing, robotics, technology, aerospace/defense or automotive.

Proven experience working within scaling direct procurement functions.

Degree in Business, Law, Engineering, or related field.

APICS/ASCM CPIM or ISM-CPSM certification desirable.

Strong understanding of contract law, commercial terms, and negotiation frameworks.

Awareness of export controls (including EAR) relevant to robotics and technology.