Buyer

Are you an experienced Buyer looking for your next challenge? Certikin is looking for a Buyer who is highly organised, detail-oriented, has the ability to negotiate with suppliers and is passionate about supporting efficient purchasing operations. As part of the Purchasing team our Buyers play a key role in the smooth procurement process and supplier co-ordination.

Your responsibilities:

• Issue purchase orders based on information from the MRP system or internal customer requirements and track deliveries to ensure goods are received on time
• Research, evaluate, and select suppliers based on cost, quality, service, and reliability
• Respond to customer enquiries promptly and effectively
• Analyse customer buying patterns and predict future trends, ensuring these are communicated internally and externally
• Collaborate with internal departments to understand purchasing needs and specifications
• Liaise with suppliers, including attending meetings at suppliers sites or head office to maintain and develop supplier relationships
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with vendors
• Monitor supplier performance and implement improvement action plans when required
• Identify and source new suppliers for existing products when needed
• Ensure products comply with relevant legislation and carry the appropriate marking
• Act on and communicate supplier issues and customer complaints promptly
• Initiate and manage on-time delivery performance monitoring on strategically important suppliers and implement time bound action plans where required
• Negotiate PO prices and seek to improve PO delivery time where required
• Negotiate and set up any new suppliers on MRP system including Purchasing Terms and Conditions, Costs and Quality specifications
• Set up new part numbers on the current MRP system including lead times, costs, discount groups, product groups and logistical data
• Order stock/parts against new order requirements or stock replenishment to agreed minimum/maximum stock levels using relevant packages
• Communicate with internal departments to ensure any requirements are matched by the supply base
• Liaise with the transport team and couriers for all logistic requirements
• Manage minimum/maximum stock levels of all allocated suppliers and to follow up any changes in demand on company database

To succeed in this role, you will need a positive attitude and the following:

• Proven direct buying experience would be advantageous
• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and, at times, stressful environment
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
• CIPS Qualified would be desirable

About Certikin

Certikin is a leading supplier of pool and spa products in the UK. We offer a wide range of products, including pool covers, heating and ventilation equipment, pool cleaners, and more. Established in 1963, Certikin has built a reputation for premium quality and innovation in the wet leisure and water treatment industry.

Certikin is part of the Fluidra group, a global leader in the pool and wellness industry, which allows them to serve over 50 countries with a diverse product portfolio

Why Join Us?

Your role will be office based working 37 hours a week within a small and knowledgeable team.

We are offering an annual salary between £28,000 – £32,000 depending on experience plus a performance related bonus.

Competitive Pension Plan: Secure your future with our 4% pension contribution. We invest in your long-term financial well-being, ensuring you have a solid foundation for retirement.

Generous Holiday Allowance: We believe in work-life balance. Start with 25 days of holiday, and as you grow with us, enjoy up to 28 days with long service. Take the time you need to relax, recharge, and spend quality moments with your loved ones.

Comprehensive Health Cash Plan: Your health matters to us. Our health cash plan helps cover everyday healthcare costs, from dental check-ups to physiotherapy, giving you peace of mind and support when you need it most.

Cycle to Work Scheme: Promote a healthy lifestyle and reduce your carbon footprint with our cycle to work scheme. It’s a great way to stay fit, save on travel costs, and contribute to a greener environment.

Long Service Awards: We value loyalty and dedication. Our long service awards recognise and reward your commitment to the company, celebrating your milestones with us.

Employee of the Season: We appreciate hard work and excellence. Our Employee of the Season program acknowledges outstanding performance, giving you the recognition you deserve.

Free Parking: Enjoy the convenience of free parking at our head office. Save time and money with easy access to your workplace, making your daily commute hassle-free.

At Certikin (part of Fluidra), we are committed to both the professional and personal development of our employees. Thanks to our highly qualified team of experts we are able to fulfil our main mission: To create the perfect pool and wellness experience responsibly. In conjunction with this, our purpose is to turn water into a better world.