At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage category strategies and build strong supplier relationships for maximum value.
- Company: Join Caterpillar, a leader in innovative supply solutions with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, bonuses, pension matching, and flexible health benefits.
- Other info: Onsite role with great career growth opportunities and a focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Make an impact in procurement while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience preferred; data analytics and communication skills are key.
The predicted salary is between 49519 - 49519 £ per year.
Location: Peterborough / Peterlee
Salary: £49,519 per annum plus dependent upon experience.
Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave
- Up to 10% bonus
- Contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double employee's contribution up to 10%
- Contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution
- Optional flexible benefits including health and dental care plans, EV car lease, holiday purchase
Role Definition: Provides supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value.
Responsibilities:
- Develop, manage, and execute the category strategy, including policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.
- Identify and pursue cost reductions, inventory reductions, and quality improvements, and assess risk of business proposals.
- Act as liaison between the organization and suppliers, communicating needs while considering production demands and supplier conditions.
- Document supplier performance on timeliness and production; maintain strong supplier relationships.
Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience desired.
Key Competencies:
- Data Analytics: Use techniques for inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modeling data to support decision-making. Advise stakeholders on relationships between financial performance and operational data. Anticipate challenges in data collection; identify trends and correlations. Evaluate data quality and effectiveness of analytical methods. Interpret risks, threats, and opportunities in predictive modeling. Implement business data collection processes and train junior staff.
- Effective Communications: Provide constructive feedback without offending. Listen without defensiveness and use feedback to improve communication. Deliver oral presentations and write required reports. Avoid inappropriate technical jargon. Read non‑verbal cues.
- Interpersonal Relationships: Explain impact of interactions with individuals and groups. Identify roles and responsibilities. Understand alternative viewpoints. Collaborate with departmental associates and management. Adapt interaction style to different situations and people.
- Negotiating: Aim for win‑win outcomes rather than win‑lose. Focus on issues, not personalities. Use active listening and probing techniques. Examine own position and present it clearly. Listen attentively to others’ positions.
- Contracts Management and Administration: Administer locally relevant contracts. Implement protocols and procedures. Explain required information before contract signing. Review contracts for compliance with specifications and regulations. Create files of relevant information for vendors, customers, or contracts.
- Purchasing Tasks and Activities: Record documents of purchasing tasks (orders, bidding). Use procurement systems and tools. Ensure compliance with procurement regulations. Handle basic purchasing tasks. Adhere to procurement process steps.
- Supplier Relationship Management: Follow supplier relationship policies and codes. Communicate about contract preparation and negotiation. Document and analyze supplier relationship issues. Monitor supplier satisfaction. Address critical issues and resolve major problems.
- Strategic Sourcing: Perform basic components of strategic sourcing: data analysis, market research, budgeting. Identify improvement opportunities in sourcing processes. Conduct sourcing activities in limited environments. Follow relevant policies and standards. Assist senior sourcing professionals in multiple environments.
Additional Requirements: This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Posting Dates: June 12, 2026 - June 24, 2026
Equal Opportunity Statement: Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Category Buyer in Peterborough employer: Caterpillar Inc.
Caterpillar is an exceptional employer located in Peterborough/Peterlee, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With competitive benefits such as a generous pension scheme, flexible health options, and opportunities for bonuses, employees are supported in achieving both personal and professional goals while enjoying a collaborative environment that values innovation and strategic thinking.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer in Peterborough
✨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 Inc..
✨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 Peterborough
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 Inc.:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Caterpillar Inc.. 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 Inc..
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Inc.
✨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 Inc.!
✨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 Inc.. 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 Inc.'s culture.
