Buyer / Planner

Role overview

ICS Medical Devices is looking for a Buyer / Planner to join its Supply Chain team in Ballybrit, Galway. This is an on-site position reporting to the Supply Chain Manager. The company is expanding and needs someone who can take ownership of purchasing and production planning so materials are available in line with build schedules and customer requirements. The role plays an important part in keeping supply steady, controlling costs, and supporting compliance within a medical device environment.

Procurement and supplier management

• Identify and arrange the materials, parts, and services needed for manufacturing.
• Create and oversee purchase orders based on MRP signals and production plans.
• Track supplier performance across delivery, quality, and cost, and act quickly to address shortages or other supply problems.
• Where relevant, work with suppliers on pricing, lead times, and commercial terms.
• Keep the approved supplier register up to date in line with ISO 13485 and internal procedures.

Planning and inventory control

• Build and maintain material plans using forecasts, sales orders, and production schedules.
• Maintain inventory at levels that support production while reducing surplus stock and obsolescence.
• Monitor lead times, safety stock, and reorder points closely.
• Take part in demand planning and sales and operations planning activities when needed.

Systems and compliance

• Keep ERP/MRP records accurate, including item masters, lead times, and minimum order quantities.
• Ensure all procurement and planning work follows medical device regulations and quality system requirements.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing and sharing procurement and planning records.

Improvement and collaboration

• Look for ways to reduce cost, improve processes, and lower supply risk.
• Work closely with colleagues in Production, Quality, Engineering, and Logistics.
• Assist with new product introduction and supplier onboarding activities.

Essential experience and qualifications

A Level 8 qualification in Supply Chain, Business, or a related area is required. The ideal candidate will bring at least 3 years of experience in a Buyer, Planner, or Buyer/Planner position. Experience in a regulated manufacturing setting such as medical devices or pharmaceuticals is preferred. A strong working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems is essential, along with strong organisational, analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Desirable background

Experience with ISO 13485 or comparable quality standards would be an advantage. Familiarity with supply chain planning concepts such as forecasting, inventory management, and lead times is also useful. A CIPS qualification, or progress toward one, is considered beneficial.

Personal attributes

The company is seeking someone who is highly organised, precise, proactive, calm under pressure, commercially minded, and committed to continuous improvement. The role also suits a person who works well in a team but is equally comfortable working independently.

Why this role may appeal

• Competitive pay and benefits.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.
• An opportunity to contribute meaningfully in a patient-focused industry.