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- Tasks: Manage and develop high volume product streams in a dynamic procurement team.
- Company: Join a leading niche manufacturing business with a strong reputation in the industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with one day at home and various corporate perks.
- Why this job: This role offers growth opportunities and a chance to make a real impact on product quality.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in Buying or Procurement, with GCSEs in Maths and English; CIPS certification is a plus.
- Other info: Ideal for graduates or those with experience in Food, Retail, Manufacturing, or Engineering.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an office-based role with 1 day per week home working. We are currently seeking a Category Buyer to join a leading niche manufacturing business within their procurement team. In this role you will be responsible for the management and development of high volume and fast-moving product streams including consumables, PPE and machinery to name a few.
As a Category Buyer, you will ensure the strategy delivers ‘best value’ based on a combination of quality of product, service and cost, and that the strategic sourcing process is applied consistently and appropriately. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with approx 3-5 years in a Buying or Procurement role looking to take their next career step. Ideal industry sectors would be Food, Retail, Manufacturing or Engineering, although we would also consider transferable sector experience.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- To increase the volume and value of products sold within the specified categories.
- Develop and manage the specific range within the portfolio of product categories.
- Develop and maintain supplier relationships with both new and existing suppliers.
- Set up and implement supplier agreements with all key suppliers whilst ensuring highest product quality and sales margins are achieved.
- Work closely with internal stakeholders to identify and create opportunities for new products or new customers to maximise growth and profit opportunities.
- Understand available internal and external data, complete spend analysis and provide insight.
- Achieve Procurement savings and/or increase company revenue.
- Pro-actively review and monitor key suppliers in your portfolio, review compliance data, identify any supply risks and mitigate through robust supplier development.
- Work with our compliance manager to ensure products and suppliers meet the correct quality standard.
Skills & Experience:
- Minimum of 5 GCSE’s including Mathematics and English, ideally qualified or working towards full CIPS certification.
- The successful candidate will ideally be of graduate calibre.
- Experience of Supply Chain / Purchasing with exposure to Sales & Marketing environments.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office packages, CRM and Sage 200c.
- Excellent organization and time management skills and meticulous attention to detail.
- Worked within food safety/quality or supply chain and manufacturing role is preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Category Buyer employer: Elite Search Solutions
Contact Detail:
Elite Search Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the procurement and buying sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at companies like us.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in supply chain management and procurement, especially within the food, retail, manufacturing, and engineering sectors. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with supplier relationship management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've developed and maintained successful partnerships in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your analytical skills by being prepared to discuss how you've used data to drive procurement decisions. Highlight any experience you have with spend analysis and how it has led to cost savings or improved supplier performance.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Buying or Procurement roles, especially within the Food, Retail, Manufacturing, or Engineering sectors. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying for the Category Buyer position. Mention your experience with supplier relationships, procurement strategies, and any relevant certifications like CIPS. Show how you can add value to their team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and Sage 200c. Also, showcase your organisational skills and attention to detail, as these are crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which is essential for a Category Buyer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Elite Search Solutions
✨Know Your Categories
Familiarise yourself with the specific product categories you'll be managing, such as consumables and PPE. Be prepared to discuss trends in these areas and how you can add value through strategic sourcing.
✨Demonstrate Supplier Relationship Skills
Highlight your experience in developing and maintaining supplier relationships. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully negotiated agreements or improved supplier performance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Analytical Abilities
Prepare to discuss your experience with spend analysis and data interpretation. Employers will want to know how you use data to drive decisions and identify opportunities for cost savings or revenue growth.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain complex ideas simply, especially when discussing compliance and quality standards.
