At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supplier selection and manage relationships to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
- Company: Join Caterpillar, a global leader in construction and mining equipment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, private medical, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with limitless career opportunities and a commitment to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable projects while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing principles and strong analytical skills are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 57700 - 72000 £ 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.
The Opportunity: As a Category Buyer, you will act as a key liaison between Caterpillar and its supply base, supporting the development of suppliers to meet quality and production goals. Your work will directly contribute to delivering machines that meet customer expectations. You will play an integral role in cross-functional project teams, collaborating closely with Engineering, Quality, Packaging, and Supply Chain colleagues on both new product introductions and machine upgrades.
As a Category Buyer, you are accountable for, but not limited to:
- Leading supplier selection activities for components used on Caterpillar machines
- Managing supplier relationships, including fact-based negotiation on pricing and commercial agreements, ensuring cost competitiveness, compliance, and sustainable value, while proactively identifying opportunities and mitigating risks
- Developing and executing global category strategies in collaboration with key stakeholders
- Driving continuous improvement in supplier performance by analysing and acting on Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) metrics
- Partnering with suppliers across categories such as fluid carrying tubes, hoses, bearings, fasteners, and related components
What You Can Demonstrate:
- Problem Solving: Identifies root causes of supplier, quality or cost issues and develops effective corrective actions.
- Managing Multiple Priorities: Effectively manages multiple projects and supplier activities in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective Communications: Communicates clearly with suppliers and cross-functional teams to explain complex issues and align stakeholders on decisions.
- Analytical Thinking: Applies structured analysis to evaluate supplier performance, sourcing options and risk.
What You May Have:
- Solid understanding of purchasing principles, processes, and compliance, including supplier agreements and commercial terms
- Strong ability to engage with suppliers and support day-to-day commercial discussions in a manufacturing or operational setting
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and apply this understanding to sourcing and decision-making
- Confident use of Excel and PowerPoint to analyse data, generate insights, and support clear, informed decision-making
What You Will Get: One Company, Limitless Opportunities. Careers at Caterpillar are limitless, we have opportunities in Engineering, Human Resources, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain and so much more. You can create the career you want.
Our Sustainability Commitment: Caterpillar has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, one of our five Values in Action. We actively lead sustainable green initiatives to preserve the environment, help reduce poverty with the Caterpillar Foundation and stay involved in the communities we help build.
Benefits: 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday, Private Medical, 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, Employee Support Networks, optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans.
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Category Buyer in Desford employer: Caterpillar Brazil
Caterpillar Inc. is an exceptional employer located in Desford, Leicestershire, offering a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including 27 days of annual leave, private medical insurance, and a robust pension scheme, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement further enhances its appeal, making it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer in Desford
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil.
✨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 Category Buyer in Desford
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 Caterpillar Brazil:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Caterpillar Brazil. 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 Caterpillar Brazil.
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Brazil
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil!
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil. 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 Caterpillar Brazil's culture.
