At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage IT Professional Services & Telecoms procurement strategies and supplier relationships.
- Company: Caterpillar Inc. is a global leader in construction and mining equipment, committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, up to 12% bonus, and flexible benefits like health plans and EV car lease.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact on sustainable communities and innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Business Management, Finance, or IT; strong data analytics and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Work in Shrewsbury, UK, with a competitive salary up to £58,500 based on experience.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58500 £ per year.
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you’re joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. Together, we are building a better world.
Salary: up to £58,500 (depending on experience)
Location: Shrewsbury, UK
This position requires the candidate to work a 5-day-a-week schedule in the office.
Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave
- Up to 12% Bonus
- Contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution Up to 10%
- Contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution
- Optional flexible benefits including access to health and dental care plans, EV car lease, holiday purchase.
Job Summary: Caterpillar Financial Services Division (Indirect services) is looking to add an IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category Buyer who will provide supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value. The IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category Buyer will act as the liaison between the organization and the supplier to communicate information explicitly, while considering internal Stakeholder and Business Unit demands.
What You Will Do:
- Developing, managing, and executing the IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category strategy managing policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.
- Recognizing the potential for cost decreases, improved service levels and quality improvement, as well as responsibility for soundness of business proposals and risk assessment.
- Manage the global IT professional services & Telecoms supplier relationship.
- Mentor and develop other procurement professionals and promote the highest level of professionalism and business ethics.
What You Have:
- Data Analytics and Negotiating skills
- Knowledge of policies, standards, and processes of how to manage and administer contracts; ability to use proper processes and practices for managing and administering a variety of contractual agreements.
- Supplier Relationship Management and Effective Communication
- Ability to handle a substantial flow of IT purchasing projects with challenging/expedited deadlines.
- Degree preferably in Business Management, Finance, Purchasing, IT, or equivalent purchasing professional qualification or progressive experience in sourcing/purchasing for Indirect or Direct in relation to IT or professional services.
Ideally, you will have gained the following skills and experience through previous roles:
- Demonstrated understanding of category deliverables, savings commitments, milestones and obligations, and establish a project plan to meet them.
- Analytical, problem solving, and project leadership expertise.
- Maintain knowledge of current IT trends, vendor capabilities and changes within the technology landscape for traditional and emerging solutions.
- Manage and optimizing supplier performance including contract compliance, continuous improvement, innovations, and reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO).
- Established negotiator; able to interpret, analyze, and negotiate contractual cost elements.
What You Will Get: Our goal at Caterpillar is for you to have a rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. You will benefit from a very competitive compensation and benefits package, career development and training opportunities, from a globally-renowned company which is driven by its core values of Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability.
NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.
About Caterpillar: Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future.
Category Buyer employer: Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation
Contact Detail:
Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT and telecoms procurement. Understanding current market dynamics will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed about the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in IT services. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals that could boost your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or negotiated contracts in the past. Real-life scenarios can showcase your skills effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Caterpillar's values and recent projects. Tailoring your conversation to align with their mission of sustainability and innovation can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands the company culture.
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 and skills that align with the Category Buyer role. Focus on your data analytics, negotiation skills, and any previous procurement experience, especially in IT or professional services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Caterpillar's values and how your background fits the job description. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or executed procurement strategies.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly outline your educational background and any professional qualifications related to business management, finance, or purchasing. If you have certifications in procurement or sourcing, make sure to include them.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. Discuss your analytical and project leadership expertise, particularly in managing procurement projects with tight deadlines.
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation
✨Understand the Role
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Category Buyer. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of IT Professional Services and Telecoms procurement, as well as the specific skills Caterpillar is looking for, such as data analytics and supplier relationship management.
✨Prepare Your Examples
Be ready to discuss your previous experiences that demonstrate your negotiation skills and ability to manage supplier relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing how you've successfully handled procurement projects in the past.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the role requires strong analytical abilities, prepare to discuss how you've used data analytics in your previous roles. Bring examples of how you've identified cost-saving opportunities or improved service levels through your analysis.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about the current challenges the procurement team faces or how they measure success in the Category Buyer position. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and strategic thinking.