At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships for impactful outcomes.
- Company: Join Carnival UK, a leader in unforgettable holiday experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, competitive pay, and generous leave plus employee discounts.
- Other info: Diverse team culture with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Be a key player in driving change and innovation in procurement.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in supplier management required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
As part of our continuing journey of growth and innovation at Carnival UK, we are seeking an Information Technology Senior Buyer to bring fresh perspective, strong expertise and commercial leadership to our Procurement function. In this pivotal role, you will take full ownership of end-to-end procurement activity across the IT category. With project management at the heart of the sourcing process, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, partnering closely with senior stakeholders across the business to deliver meaningful, value driven outcomes.
Key responsibilities
- Develop, implement and lead the IT category sourcing strategy, managing ongoing commercial, operational, quality and risk requirements across the portfolio.
- Lead and execute tendering, negotiation, contracting and contract management activities across significant spend areas, while driving strong Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) to ensure optimum service, value and performance.
- Act as a trusted Procurement Business Partner for both projects and operational teams, embedding procurement as a strategic enabler and leading change initiatives across Carnival UK.
This role is positioned at CUK08 level within our organization and is available on a full-time, fixed term basis until February 2027. We offer hybrid work including up to two days from home.
What You'll Bring
Your unique background and skills are what will make you stand out. We're looking for:
- Excellent negotiation skills, including experience drafting and managing contracts of varying values and complexity.
- Strong supplier management and Service Level Agreement management capability.
- Knowledge of purchasing systems, procurement processes, and contractual frameworks.
- Up-to-date MS Office skills, with strong Excel capability.
About You: The Ideal Candidate
You are more than just your CV. You're someone who brings:
- The ability to work independently with minimal guidance while managing complex procurement activity.
- Confidence and credibility when communicating complex issues to cross-functional stakeholders.
- A collaborative, business-partnering mindset.
- A proactive approach, bringing fresh ideas and different perspectives to drive value and change.
Application Guidance
Diversity is our strength, and we encourage applications from those with varied experiences, whether you meet every listed requirement or not. If you’re passionate about Procurement and are looking for an opportunity to grow, we’d love to hear from you.
Why Join Us
Working with us means more than just a role in Procurement. It’s about being part of a team that values well-being and personal growth. Here’s what we offer:
- Employee Discounted Cruising plus Friends and Family offers
- Annual bonus
- Minimum 25 days leave, bank holiday allowance and holiday trading scheme
- Company paid Health Cash Plan and health assessment
- In-house Occupational Health help and access to digital GP
- Life Assurance
- Employee Shares Plan
- Electric Car and Cycle to Work schemes
- Discounted retail and leisure via discounts portal
Due to the popularity of our roles and our commitment to finding the best talent, we might close applications earlier than advertised. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to become part of a team dedicated to creating unforgettable holiday happiness. Apply today to start your journey with us.
Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton employer: Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard)
At Carnival UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions employee well-being and personal growth. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering a range of benefits including discounted cruising, generous leave, and health plans, all while providing opportunities for professional development in a dynamic environment. Join us in creating unforgettable holiday experiences as part of a diverse team dedicated to excellence.
Contact Details:
Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard).
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard):Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard). Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard).
How to prepare for a job interview at Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard)
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard)!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard). Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard)'s culture.
