At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing and manage procurement for operational services.
- Company: Join Cadent, a leader in shaping the future of UK energy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonus, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and a greener future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on commercial value and sustainability.
- Qualifications: MCIPS qualified or willing to work towards it, with strategic sourcing experience.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid between Ansty Office (CV7 9JU) & Home - typically 2/3 days per week in office or other regional office depending on your location.
Shape Commercial Value as a Senior Buyer. Are you an experienced procurement professional looking to make a real impact? We're looking for a Senior Buyer to manage our Operational Services category, leading strategic sourcing activities and helping deliver commercial value across the business. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a key procurement portfolio, working closely with stakeholders and suppliers to develop innovative sourcing strategies, manage commercial risks and support Cadent's business objectives.
Why you'll love this role:
- Category Ownership: Take end-to-end responsibility for your portfolio, developing and delivering category strategies that support business priorities and operational requirements.
- Strategic Sourcing: Lead sourcing activities from market engagement and tendering through to contract award, ensuring best-for-task solutions for Cadent.
- Commercial Influence: Collaborate with stakeholders to understand and challenge demand, identify opportunities and deliver value-driven procurement outcomes.
- Market Insight: Analyse supply markets, supplier capabilities and emerging trends to identify future risks, opportunities and innovative solutions.
- Supplier Relationships: Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships, driving performance and long-term value through effective relationship management.
- Contract Development: Support the scoping, negotiation and implementation of contractual agreements that balance business need, commercial value and risk.
- Governance & Compliance: Ensure sourcing and contract activities align with Cadent's risk profile, legal framework and procurement obligations.
What You'll Bring:
- MCIPS Qualified: Or willing to work towards achieving MCIPS accreditation.
- Strategic Sourcing Experience: Proven experience leading complex, high-value sourcing activities, including supplier negotiations, cost management and commercial decision-making.
- Commercial Awareness: Strong understanding of commercial principles, contract management and procurement best practice.
- Analytical Skills: Confidence analysing and presenting data to support sourcing strategies and contract decisions.
- Supplier & Market Knowledge: Experience researching supply markets, assessing risks and identifying opportunities to strengthen category strategies.
- Process Improvement: A track record of identifying and implementing improvements that enhance service, efficiency and customer experience.
- Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Procurement Knowledge: Understanding of UK Utilities and procurement regulations, with experience managing compliant tender processes.
- Relationship Building: Ability to develop effective working relationships internally and externally, creating collaborative and constructive partnerships.
Interviews are expected to take place w/c 21st September 2026.
What's In It for You:
- Annual bonus
- Pension Scheme double matched up to a total of 18% of salary
- 25 days holiday, plus statutory days, and an option to buy more
- An extra day off each year to celebrate life's special moments
- Career development with funded learning options
- Flexible working and strong ED&I commitments
- Generous family policies and flexible benefits
- Retail discounts, gym access, and more
We support a healthy work-life balance and are open to flexible working options.
Diversity and Inclusion: We value diversity and are committed to being an equitable employer. Our employee communities - Women in Cadent, Pride at Work (LGBTQ+), Embrace (ethnicity and religion), Thrive! (disability), the Cadent Military Community, the Grief Awareness Community, and the Men's Engagement Network (M.E.N) - can't wait to welcome you! As a proud Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process and we will ensure that support is provided.
Be part of something big. Help shape the future of gas for generations to come.
Senior Buyer in Coventry employer: Cadent Gas
At Cadent, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic hybrid work environment that balances office and home life. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through funded learning opportunities, a generous pension scheme, and a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported. Join us in shaping a cleaner, greener future while enjoying a rewarding career with competitive benefits and a culture that celebrates innovation and collaboration.
