Category Buyer

Category Buyer

Peterlee Full-Time 42000 - 58500 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage IT Professional Services & Telecoms procurement strategies and supplier relationships.
  • Company: Caterpillar Inc. is a global leader in construction and mining equipment, committed to sustainability.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, up to 12% bonus, and flexible health benefits.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact on sustainable communities and innovation.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Business Management, Finance, or related field; strong data analytics and negotiation skills required.
  • Other info: This is a permanent office-based role in Peterlee, UK.

The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58500 £ per year.

Career Area:

Procurement

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you\’rejoining 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. We don\’tjust 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.

Job Title: Category Buyer

Salary: up to £58,500 depending on experience

Contract: Permanent

Location: Peterlee, UK

This position requires the candidate to work a 5-day-a-week schedule in the office.

Benefits:

  • 25 days annual leave,

  • Up to 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.

  • Optional flexible benefits including access to health and dental care plans, EV car lease, holiday purchase.

Job Summary
Caterpillar Financial Services Division (Indirect services) is looking to add an IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category Buyer who will provide supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value. The IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category Buyer will act as the liaison between the organization and the supplier to communicate information explicitly, while considering internal Stakeholder and Business Unit demands. If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply to join Caterpillar’s growing, and dynamic workforce!

What You Will Do:

  • Developing, managing, and executing the IT Professional Services & Telecoms Category strategy managing policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.

  • Recognizing the potential for cost decreases, improved service levels and quality improvement, as well as responsibility for soundness of business proposals and risk assessment.

  • Manage the global IT professional services & Telecoms supplier relationship including

  • Mentor and develop other procurement professionals and promote the highest level of professionalism and business ethics.

What You Have:

  • Data Analytics and Negotiating skills

  • Knowledge of policies, standards, and processes of how to manage and administer contracts; ability to use proper processes and practices for managing and administering a variety of contractual agreements. Knowledge of policies, regulations, and processes of purchasing; ability to use practices and procedures for procurement of materials, components, equipment, and services.

  • Supplier Relationship Management and Effective Communication

  • Ability to handle a substantial flow of IT purchasing projects with challenging/expedited deadlines. Actively facilitate and manage procurement from start to finish with a hands-on approach.

  • Degree preferably in Business Management, Finance, Purchasing, IT. or equivalent purchasing professional qualification or progressive experience in sourcing/purchasing for Indirect or Direct in relation to IT or professional services.

Ideally, you will have gained the following skills and experience through previous roles:

  • Demonstrated understanding of category deliverables, savings commitments, milestones and obligations, and establish a project plan to meet them.

  • Analytical, problem solving, and project leadership expertise.

  • Maintain knowledge of current IT trends, vendor capabilities and changes within the technology landscape for traditional and emerging solutions.

  • Manage and optimizing supplier performance including contract compliance, continuous improvement, innovations, and reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO).

  • Established negotiator; able to interpret, analyze, and negotiate contractual cost elements.

What You Will Get:

Our goal at Caterpillar is for you to have a rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. You will benefit from a very competitive compensation and benefits package, career development and training opportunities, from a globally-renowned company which is driven by its core values of Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability.

NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.

Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting

About Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. #LI

Posting Dates:

June 26, 2025 – July 10, 2025

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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Category Buyer employer: Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees, offering a competitive salary of up to £58,500 along with generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and opportunities for career development. Located in Peterlee, UK, the company fosters a collaborative work culture where innovation and teamwork are at the forefront, empowering employees to make a meaningful impact in building a sustainable future.
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Contact Detail:

Caterpillar Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Category Buyer

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT and telecoms procurement. Understanding current market dynamics will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed in this fast-paced industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in IT services and telecoms. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or negotiated contracts in the past. Having concrete stories ready will showcase your skills and make you a memorable candidate.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Caterpillar's values and recent initiatives in sustainability and innovation. Aligning your personal values with theirs during discussions can create a strong connection and show that you're a good cultural fit for the company.

We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer

Data Analytics
Negotiation Skills
Contract Management
Supplier Relationship Management
Effective Communication
Project Management
Analytical Problem Solving
Knowledge of IT Trends
Cost Reduction Strategies
Continuous Improvement
Understanding of Procurement Processes
Ability to Manage Multiple Projects
Business Ethics
Stakeholder Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Category Buyer role. Focus on your data analytics, negotiation skills, and any previous procurement experience, especially in IT or professional services.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Caterpillar's values and how your background fits the role. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or executed procurement strategies.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree or qualifications related to Business Management, Finance, or Purchasing. If you have any certifications in procurement or sourcing, be sure to include those as well.

Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. Caterpillar values analytical and problem-solving expertise, so demonstrate how you've led projects or improved processes in procurement.

How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar

✨Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Category Buyer, especially in IT Professional Services & Telecoms. Familiarise yourself with key terms like QCLDM and supplier relationship management, as these will likely come up during your interview.

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

Prepare to discuss your experience with data analytics and how you've used it to drive decisions in procurement. Be ready to provide examples of how you've identified cost-saving opportunities or improved service levels in previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Negotiation Expertise

As negotiation is a crucial part of this role, be prepared to share specific instances where you've successfully negotiated contracts or agreements. Highlight your ability to interpret and analyse contractual elements to achieve favourable outcomes.

✨Research Caterpillar's Values

Caterpillar places a strong emphasis on integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment, and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with these values and think about how your personal values align with them. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of building a better world.

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