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- Tasks: Assist Category Managers with daily enquiries and support on projects.
- Company: Join EP Group, a global leader in packaging for top retailers like Amazon and McDonald's.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team making impactful decisions in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement is essential; CIPS qualification is a plus.
- Other info: This role is based onsite in Birmingham, perfect for those seeking hands-on experience.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Location: Birmingham / Onsite
EP Group is a global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and South East Asia. We specialise in a range of paper and plastic based packaging products, selling to many of the world's largest retailers including Marks & Spencer, Amazon and McDonalds.
We have an opportunity for a Junior Buyer to join our purchasing team in our Birmingham Head Office. The Junior Buyer will be responsible for assisting our Category Managers with day to day enquiries for an assigned category. The Junior Buyer will provide accurate information to other departments in a timely manner, whilst supporting on projects or reporting that arises. You will also research the market and supply base and keep all information accurate and up to date.
Key accountabilities:
- RFI/RFQ – Complete enquiries accurately and within defined timescales.
- Full cost analysis.
- Data – Ensure data regarding product, suppliers etc is set up and maintained accurately.
- Account support – Be the first point of contact for the account support functions.
- Reports – Generate and maintain departmental and category specific reports e.g. Category spend/margin, Raw Material tracking.
- Meetings – Attend supplier meetings, prepare pre-meeting reports with KPI trackers and take and file minutes.
- New suppliers – Research, assess and make initial contact with potential new suppliers, updating the supplier intelligence matrix.
- Samples – Organise and label supplier samples rotating new/obsolete to make sure storage is available at all times.
- Plan and deliver cost reduction initiatives using data analysis and sourcing strategies.
- Collaborate with internal teams including operations, stock control, and quality to meet production and business objectives.
Essential Experience:
- Proven experience in procurement or strategic sourcing within a manufacturing environment is essential.
- This is a fast paced environment and attention to detail is paramount, as is the ability to communicate with people internally and externally on all levels.
- Ability to use initiative and have the energy and passion to make things happen.
- Experience leading various projects at one time and working cross-functionally.
- CIPS qualification desirable.
- Experience of using SAP beneficial, but not essential.
- Excellent administrative and organisational abilities.
- Microsoft office.
- Negotiation Skills.
- Good level of numeracy.
- Prioritisation Abilities.
- Ability to self-manage.
- Adaptable to fast-changing environments.
Contact Detail:
EP Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the packaging industry and the specific products EP Group offers. Understanding the market trends and key players will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your data analysis skills, as this role requires generating reports and conducting cost analyses. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in handling data will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in procurement and sourcing, especially those who have experience in manufacturing. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by thinking about examples from your past experiences that showcase your attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects. This will help you convey your suitability for the fast-paced environment at EP Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, especially within a manufacturing environment. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the Junior Buyer role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your attention to detail and ability to communicate effectively. Mention specific examples of how you've used data analysis or negotiation skills in previous roles to support your application.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your administrative and organisational abilities, as well as your experience with Microsoft Office and any familiarity with SAP. These skills are crucial for the Junior Buyer position and should be clearly presented.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: In your application, express your passion for the role and the packaging industry. Mention your ability to adapt to fast-changing environments and your eagerness to contribute to cost reduction initiatives and supplier management.
How to prepare for a job interview at EP Group
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research EP Group and their products. Understanding their market position and key clients like Marks & Spencer and Amazon will help you demonstrate your interest and knowledge during the conversation.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
As a Junior Buyer, you'll need to showcase your understanding of procurement processes and data analysis. Be ready to discuss your experience with cost analysis, supplier management, and any relevant tools like SAP, even if you're not an expert.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Given the fast-paced nature of the role, highlight examples from your past experiences where your attention to detail made a significant impact. This could be in managing reports, handling supplier communications, or ensuring data accuracy.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with different teams or managed supplier relationships. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
