Category Buyer in Desford

When you join Caterpillar, you’re joining a global team that 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. We don’t just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

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. Uses structured, data‑driven approaches to resolve problems and support effective commercial outcomes across the supply base.
• Managing Multiple Priorities: Effectively manages multiple projects and supplier activities in a fast‑paced environment. Prioritises workload to balance day‑to‑day operational demands, including supplier engagements, with longer‑term category and sourcing objectives.
• Effective Communications: Communicates clearly with suppliers and cross‑functional teams to explain complex issues and align stakeholders on decisions. Builds consensus across technical and commercial discussions, including fact‑based negotiation of pricing and agreements, to achieve desired outcomes.
• Analytical Thinking: Applies structured analysis to evaluate supplier performance, sourcing options and risk. Uses data, cost drivers, and market insights to support decision‑making and strengthen commercial negotiations.

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

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 – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community
• Optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc

Travel: Up to 15–20% domestically and internationally. This position requires working onsite five days a week. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.