Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Import Buyer to lead global sourcing for steel, timber, and allied materials used in the manufacture of bespoke fixtures and fittings.
This position plays a key role in driving the company's strategic initiative to transition 50% of procurement from local to international suppliers optimizing cost, quality, and supply reliability.

The successful incumbent will bring extensive experience in global procurement, import logistics, and supplier development, particularly with sourcing partners in China and Asia, and possess strong technical knowledge of materials used in manufacturing and shopfitting environments.

Key Responsibilities

1. Global Sourcing & Procurement

• Identify and establish relationships with reliable international suppliers across the following categories:

  • Wood & Timber Products: Melamine, laminates, veneers, edging, paint

  • Metals: Mild steel tubing, flat sheets, aluminum sections, mesh sheets

  • Glass: Toughened, laminated, float, and mirror glass

  • Hardware & Components: Locks, hinges, handles, drawer runners, screws, nuts, rivets, washers

  • Electrical Components: LED lights, transformers

  • Finishes & Consumables: Paints, adhesives, silicones, tapes, glues

  • Workshop Supplies: Air tools, hand tools, drill bits, safety gear, PPE

• Develop and execute global procurement strategies to achieve measurable cost savings.

• Negotiate supplier contracts, payment terms, and pricing structures.

• Conduct market research to identify alternative materials and emerging suppliers that meet cost, performance, and sustainability standards.

2. Supply Chain & Logistics

• Manage the full import process from purchase order through to delivery, including freight forwarding, customs clearance, and related documentation (bills of lading, certificates of origin, etc.).

• Collaborate with shipping agents, customs brokers, and logistics providers to ensure timeous and cost-effective delivery.

• Maintain compliant and accurate import records, supplier documentation, and ERP entries.

3. Supplier Management & Quality Assurance

• Evaluate, onboard, and develop new global suppliers based on quality, capacity, and ethical standards.

• Conduct supplier audits and performance reviews aligned with company objectives.

• Proactively resolve any supply, quality, or compliance issues.

4. Cost Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with production and finance teams to forecast demand and optimize inventory levels.

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction through value engineering or supplier diversification.

• Track global pricing trends and maintain a centralised supplier database.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Technical Procurement Expertise: Deep understanding of materials used in manufacturing and shopfitting.

• Global Sourcing: Proven track record with international suppliers, particularly China and the Middle East.

• Negotiation & Contracting: Strong commercial negotiation and supplier management skills.

• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of import regulations, Incoterms, HS codes, and customs documentation.

• Analytical Ability: Skilled in cost analysis, landed cost calculations, and forecasting.

• Communication: Clear and professional communicator across internal and external stakeholders.

• Systems Proficiency: Experience using ERP/procurement software systems.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Logistics, or a related discipline.

• 1015 years experience in international procurement or import sourcing, preferably within manufacturing or construction materials.

• Direct experience dealing with Chinese suppliers is highly advantageous.

Performance Indicators

• Cost savings achieved via import sourcing compared to local procurement.

• Supplier reliability and on-time delivery performance.

• Reduction in total landed cost and improved inventory efficiency.

• Accuracy and timeliness of all import documentation.

• Contribution toward achieving the companys 50% offshore sourcing target.

Why This Role is Critical

This role is central to building the companys competitive advantage through international procurement excellence.
The Import Buyer will directly influence profitability, supply chain resilience, and material quality driving transformation towards a globally competitive sourcing model.