Technical Procurement Specialist

About the role

Metalform is looking for a commercially sharp and technically capable Procurement Manager to join the team in Dannevirke. This is not a conventional purchasing role. Metalform manufactures a wide range of products containing thousands of individual components, materials and purchased items. A major focus of this position will be identifying alternative sources of supply that reduce cost, improve availability and strengthen the supply chain. You will need to understand whether an alternative component or material is genuinely fit for purpose. This can involve interpreting engineering drawings and specifications, comparing materials and manufacturing processes, reviewing samples, and working closely with engineering, quality and production teams. The role combines technical understanding with strong commercial instincts—negotiating, building supplier relationships and securing genuinely great deals.

Key responsibilities

• Manage purchasing and supplier relationships across a large and varied range of materials, components and services
• Proactively source alternative suppliers in New Zealand and overseas
• Identify and deliver measurable cost-saving opportunities
• Assess alternative products and suppliers for quality, suitability, reliability and total cost
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and technical information
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, freight arrangements, minimum order quantities and supply agreements
• Develop strong, competitive relationships with existing and potential suppliers
• Work closely with engineering, production, quality and inventory teams
• Monitor supplier performance, lead times and delivery reliability
• Reduce supply-chain risk and improve continuity of supply

About you

• An engineering, manufacturing or technical background
• Experience in procurement, purchasing, sourcing, supply-chain management or a related commercial role
• The technical confidence to assess whether alternative materials and components are fit for purpose
• The ability to read engineering drawings and understand manufacturing processes
• Strong negotiation skills and a genuine enjoyment of commercial negotiation
• A persistent and curious approach—you enjoy finding a better option and are not satisfied with simply purchasing from the same supplier every time
• Strong commercial judgement, including an understanding of total landed cost, quality, lead time and supply risk
• Excellent communication, organisation and relationship-building skills
• Experience using an ERP system, which would be a strong advantage
• The ability to confidently manage a large number of items and competing priorities

About us

Metalform is a well-established manufacturing company with extensive design and production capabilities at the Dannevirke facility. This is an opportunity to take ownership of an important function and make a direct, measurable contribution to the company's competitiveness and profitability. The role offers variety, autonomy and the satisfaction of seeing the results of your decisions on the factory floor.