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- Tasks: Manage procurement and supplier relationships for the UK and Europe.
- Company: Join En Route International, a global leader in premium food supply for the travel industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, collaborative culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and sustainability in food procurement.
- Qualifications: Degree level education preferred; experience in food and beverage procurement is a plus.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel and work with world-class manufacturers.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Windsor, UK
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum
Job Type: Fulltime, Permanent
Company overview
En Route International operates globally as part of dnata, one of the world’s largest combined air services providers. With offices in the UK, USA, Australia and UAE, En Route supplies premium baked goods, meals and snacks to the travel industry. We focus on partnering with world-class manufacturers, customising products and packaging to suit individual customer needs while managing a complex supply chain with the highest levels of precision.
Job purpose
Reporting to a Category Manager, you will manage the Procurement and suppliers for UK and Europe. Taking a category management approach, you will support the Procurement team in delivering the Procurement strategy for UK & Europe, creating a supply base fit for purpose in meeting En Route’s growth objectives.
Key responsibilities
- To work with the Procurement team in developing and implementing a clear supply base strategy to deliver En Route’s requirements in UK & Europe, aligned with the global strategy.
- To manage the UK & European Supply base on a day-to-day basis ensuring all relationships, commercials and opportunities are complete and delivered.
- To negotiate and manage Contracts and Terms with Suppliers.
- To identify, implement and monitor opportunities to improve cost savings, project deliverables and supplier selection, reporting progress on a regular basis.
- To work collaboratively with Product Development and Supply Chain teams to support the creation of innovative product solutions and their distribution in an efficient and cost effective manner.
- To manage the Supplier listing and start-up process, category reporting and category action plans.
- To take a proactive approach in understanding the markets in which En Route operates, identifying Procurement opportunities and risks and taking appropriate and timely action in coordination with the P&SC Director.
- To work closely with the Supply Chain teams to ensure terms and conditions agreed with Suppliers support the maintenance of excellent product availability, ensuring strong levels of customer service.
Our Values
Created by En-Route colleagues, our values are at the very heart of our business.
- Collaborate: multi functional teams drive successful projects here, we trust each other to achieve our mission. Together we are En-Route.
- Say it as it is: We have a point of view based on our expertise. We express ourselves honestly to create meaningful conversations.
- Find a way: With a clear vision of the end-state, we relish the thrill of uncovering bold, unconventional paths to get there.
- Own it: Leadership is defined by initiative and responsibility. We have autonomy, tools and guidance, and we make impactful decisions from any position.
- Represent the customer: As an extension of their business, we live their lives and understand their everyday challenges. We do what’s right by them in every action we take.
Person Specification
Knowledge and skills
- Food & Beverage Procurement professional.
- Some experience of Buying Packaging and non-Food categories preferred.
- Knowledge of the UK and/or European supply markets.
- A strong negotiator with demonstrated ability to develop and manage sustainable Supplier relationships.
- Comfortable with the negotiation, development and management of Supplier Contracts.
- Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks across Food and non-Food categories.
- Evidence of strong collaboration with other functions.
- Ability to travel as needed.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Specific aptitudes / skills
- Educated to Degree level preferred.
- MCIP’s qualification or equivalent preferred.
Category Buyer employer: En Route International
Contact Detail:
En Route International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the food and beverage procurement landscape, especially in the UK and Europe. Understanding market trends and supplier dynamics will give you an edge during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, particularly those who have experience in the food and beverage sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your negotiation strategies and experiences in managing supplier relationships. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability for the Category Buyer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research En Route International and their values thoroughly. Tailoring your conversation to reflect their mission and demonstrating how your personal values align with theirs can significantly enhance your chances of making a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, particularly in food and beverage sectors. Emphasise any previous roles where you managed supplier relationships or negotiated contracts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific examples of how your skills align with the job requirements, such as your experience in managing supply chains or collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since the role requires strong negotiation abilities, include examples in your application that demonstrate your success in negotiating contracts or improving cost savings in previous positions.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a degree or MCIP qualification, make sure to mention it prominently in your application. This will show that you meet the educational requirements and are serious about your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at En Route International
✨Research the Company and Industry
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research En Route International and the travel industry. Understand their products, values, and market position. This will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to collaborate and negotiate. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting your experience in managing supplier relationships and achieving cost savings.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Category Buyer, strong negotiation skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of successful negotiations you've conducted in the past, including the strategies you used and the outcomes achieved.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Supply Chain Dynamics
Highlight your knowledge of supply chain management and how it relates to procurement. Discuss any experience you have with product development and how you can contribute to innovative solutions that align with En Route's growth objectives.
