At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-quality Purchase Orders and improve operational efficiency across the business.
- Company: Join Barrow Gas Terminal, a key player in the UK's energy infrastructure.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment focused on safety and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience with SAP and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Job Overview
The Buyer is responsible for supporting our business in ensuring delivery of high-quality Purchase Orders with vendors, supporting continuous process improvements and operational efficiency/productivity gains across the business. Acts as a first escalation point for local supplier issues and ensures that local stakeholders are appropriately trained on Procurement tools. The role will also support material coordination within the Asset and work closely with the logistics and materials team. Work in full compliance with the company Buying policy, educating and driving the correct behaviors of business stakeholders.
Build effective stakeholder relationships, ensuring a high service level in terms of buyer functional delivery. Partner with internal customers to positively influence spending decisions, analyze and make recommendations to the business. Understand the business needs and validate that the requirements are justified. Ensure availability of all goods and services in time — proactively support business owners to ensure equipment, consumables and service availability to meet agreed timescales. Execute Purchase Orders including full tracking up to delivery on site. Manage vendors to ensure timely deliveries and quality compliance.
Ensure flawless procurement procedures — working with relevant individuals to identify and make improvements where required. Support implementation of Catalogues and promote/execute with local requestors higher spend penetration through Catalogues. Support negotiations, contract implementation and maintenance, incl. supplier performance metrics. Identify savings opportunities and partner with internal customers to deliver savings through tenders, negotiations and contract renewals. Any other associated duties as reasonably required.
Qualifications
- Extensive SAP experience (as buyer)
- Strong customer service approach to delivering the buying function
- Strong written and oral communication skills, decision making/problem solving, influencing and team building skills
- Experience with contracts activities (strategy, sourcing, contracts management, etc.)
- Ability to work collaboratively across an organization and with external parties
- Ability to prioritise and ensure seamless execution
- Ability to work with external stakeholders comfortably
- Strong business acumen and commercial skills along with technical system skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office
- Degree educated preferred
Values & Culture
- Agility
- Collaboration
- Courage
- Care
- Delivery
Company Background
In operation since 1985, Barrow Gas Terminal is a key piece of the UK’s energy infrastructure and supports the Morecambe Bay gas fields. The terminal has played a long‑standing role in processing and delivering natural gas, supporting both local employment and national energy supply. With a focus on safety, environmental sustainability and community engagement, we believe in operational excellence at every stage of production.
Work Arrangement
Spirit Energy currently has a non‑contractual hybrid working arrangement for all office‑based workers. Four days must be worked in the office, with compulsory days being Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The fourth day worked in‑office (either Monday or Friday) is chosen by the worker but should be in keeping with what is most efficient and effective for their team. The office is open 5 days a week for full‑time, in‑office working if this is the contractor’s preference.
Technical Bit... employer: CIPS
CIPS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Peterborough where you can thrive as an Assessment Operations Co-ordinator. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative culture, you'll enjoy generous benefits such as 25 days of holiday, private medical insurance, and access to excellent facilities including a gym. Join us to be part of a global organisation that values your contributions and supports your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Bit...
✨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 CIPS.
✨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 Technical Bit...
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 CIPS:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to CIPS. 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 CIPS.
How to prepare for a job interview at CIPS
✨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 CIPS!
✨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 CIPS. 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 CIPS's culture.
