Opportunity Review: Assistant Buyer at Babcock International
Babcock International, a company dedicated to creating a safe and secure world, presents an exciting Assistant Buyer opportunity based in Andover, Hampshire. This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, blending on-site collaboration with remote flexibility, making it an attractive prospect for professionals seeking a balanced career.
The position, classified as a full-time, fixed-term contract for 52 weeks, comes with a competitive compensation package of £35,000 plus benefits. This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain foundational experience in procurement and supply chain operations within a professional and impactful environment. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting Babcock’s critical operations, particularly in the procurement of military vehicles and MRO spares.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Career Development: This role is explicitly designed to foster growth. You will gain hands-on experience in tactical sourcing, purchase order management, inventory oversight, and administrative coordination. Babcock is committed to developing your skills and knowledge, offering a clear pathway for progression within their procurement and supply chain functions.
- Hybrid Working Model: With up to three days on-site at their Andover, Hampshire location and the remaining days working from home, this position offers excellent work-life balance. This hybrid arrangement allows for focused individual work while maintaining valuable team collaboration.
- Impactful Work: As an Assistant Buyer, you will directly contribute to Babcock’s mission of defending nations and protecting communities. Supporting the timely and accurate coordination of essential parts and resources ensures the smooth functioning of vital operational objectives.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the competitive salary, Babcock offers a robust benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and financial security. This includes:
- Generous holiday allowance and the option to buy or sell leave.
- A matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance.
- Access to a Digital GP, annual health checks, and nutritional consultations.
- Employee share scheme and shopping savings portal.
- Payment of professional fees.
- Special paid leave for reservists in the armed forces.
- A dedicated "Be Kind Day" for volunteering.
- An employee assistance programme for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Inclusive Culture: Babcock is a disability-confident committed employer and actively encourages flexible working. They are dedicated to building an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.
Key Considerations for Candidates:
- Fixed-Term Contract: This is a 52-week fixed-term contract. Candidates should assess their career goals and whether this temporary opportunity aligns with their long-term aspirations.
- Security Clearance: A significant aspect of this role is the requirement to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) clearance. Candidates should be aware of the requirements for UK security vetting and understand how their personal circumstances might affect eligibility.
- Foundational Experience: While Babcock values a diversity of backgrounds and educational paths, foundational experience in procurement or supply chain operations within a professional setting is essential. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate this experience.
- Proactive Engagement: To excel in this role and leverage the development opportunities, candidates will need to be proactive in their learning, engagement with continuous improvement initiatives, and willingness to take on broader responsibilities as they gain experience.
This Assistant Buyer role at Babcock International is a fantastic stepping stone for individuals looking to establish or advance their careers in procurement within a reputable and mission-driven organization. The combination of impactful work, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive, forward-thinking environment makes this an opportunity worthy of serious consideration for aspiring procurement professionals.