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- Tasks: Join our team as a Category Buyer, managing procurement projects and ensuring best value for the Trust.
- Company: The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust serves over 411,000 residents with a dedicated team of 5,916 staff.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare by optimising procurement processes and contributing to cost-saving strategies.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
- Other info: Applicants must cover their DBS check costs, deducted over three months; apply early due to high demand.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Working Full time: 37.5 hours per week
A new and exciting opportunity has arisen to join our dynamic team as a Category Buyer.
As a Category Buyer, you are accountable to the Senior Category Manager, supporting all aspects of the Trust\’s Cost Improvement Programme and Cash Releasing Savings Strategy.
The Category Buyer has responsibility for contributing to the delivery of:
- Obtaining the maximum benefits from Trust expenditure on goods and services, seeking best value, reliability, responsiveness, and innovation from suppliers.
- Releasing additional cost savings, adding value, and ensuring probity through the contracting process and ongoing performance monitoring of contracts and suppliers.
- The proactive management of Trust Procurement projects and initiative delivery.
- Acting in an autonomous manner in making financial recommendations ensuring compliance with Standing Financial Instructions and the Scheme of Delegation.
- Producing briefing papers for the Procurement Manager and all Stakeholder groups to ensure actions are aligned to the corporate objectives of the Trust.
Below provides a selection of duties. For a full list, please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification.
To assist with the delivery of the Trust\’s Cost Improvement Programme Strategy through procurement projects and carrying out tendering processes up to and including above threshold.
To manage varied projects to support and contribute towards the department’s annual work-plan in line with Trust Standing Financial Instructions, Standing Orders, and relevant legislation.
Ensuring all projects are completed in a timely, effective manner.
To engage customers at all levels within both the internal organisation and external client organisations and ensure the quality of service to both of a consistently high standard.
Provide professional advice and support to Trust clinicians and managers involved in commercial activity, ensuring understanding of the complex stages involved and legal requirements.
Conduct complex procurement exercises that require understanding customer requirements and interpretation of specifications to ensure appropriate contract awards.
Deliver procurement project process reports, ensuring compliance with Trust policies and relevant legislation.
The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust provides services to West Cheshire and Welsh patients covered by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. Its services are provided from three locations:
- The Countess of Chester Hospital: 438 beds
- Ellesmere Port Hospital: 56 beds
- Tarporley War Memorial Hospital: community services base
The Trust employs over 5,916 staff and provides a wide range of services, serving a population of approximately 411,000 residents.
In 2022/2023, there were over 503,342 patient attendances, an increase of nearly 10,000 from the previous year.
See the Job Description for further details.
Recruitment is based on competence and values. Applicants will need to pay for their DBS check, with costs deducted over the first three months. Enrolment in the DBS Update Service is encouraged, with an annual fee of £16.
New NHS entrants will start at the minimum of the salary scale.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the vacancy may close prior to the advertised deadline if a high volume of applications is received.
Good luck with your application.
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Category Buyer employer: Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Contact Detail:
Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Trust's Cost Improvement Programme and Cash Releasing Savings Strategy. Understanding these key areas will help you demonstrate your alignment with the Trust's goals during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in procurement and healthcare sectors. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights into the role and potentially refer you to opportunities within the Trust.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex procurement exercises. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects, engaged stakeholders, and ensured compliance with regulations in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and its services. Being knowledgeable about the organisation will not only help you tailor your approach but also show your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of a Category Buyer. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in procurement, project management, and financial compliance. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage contracts and deliver cost savings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the Trust's objectives and how your skills can contribute to their Cost Improvement Programme. Be sure to mention your proactive approach and ability to engage with stakeholders.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Category Buyer. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, cost improvement strategies, and how to engage with various stakeholders. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to manage procurement projects, negotiate with suppliers, and deliver cost savings. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Research the Trust
Learn about The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, its services, and its values. Understanding the organisation's goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your answers and show how you can contribute to their objectives.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the Trust is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their procurement strategies or how they measure success in this role.
