Senior Buyer

About the role

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) seeks an experienced Senior Buyer to support the Procurement and Contracting Branch. You will work in a highly technical, international environment, ensuring the acquisition of complex goods and services that enable CMRE’s maritime research and experimentation programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Source, negotiate and procure specialised equipment, IT infrastructure, engineering services and high‑value technical items.
• Manage end‑to‑end RFP, RFQ and tender processes for complex technical requirements.
• Review and sign contracts within delegated authority and oversee contract lifecycle from negotiation to close‑out.
• Evaluate supplier offers on technical merit, quality, price and delivery terms.
• Collaborate with researchers, engineers and programme managers to translate technical needs into clear procurement specifications.
• Conduct market research to monitor industry trends and potential supply‑chain risks.

Required profile

• Proven experience in procurement or purchasing of technical goods and services.
• Ability to obtain NATO SECRET security clearance.
• Strong analytical and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication with internal technical stakeholders.

Required skills

• Procurement and contract management processes.
• Negotiation of complex technical contracts.
• Market research and supplier evaluation.

What we offer

• Full‑time position based in La Spezia, Italy.
• Competitive NATO grade salary (approximately €4,723.81 per month).
• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge maritime defence projects within a NATO environment.