At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships across the UK and Europe.
- Company: Join En Route International, a global leader in airline catering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive bonuses, private medical cover, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while shaping the future of travel food solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or category management, ideally in fast-paced commercial settings.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About Us: En Route International is the trusted global partner behind some of the world's leading airlines and airline caterers. As part of dnata, one of the world's largest air and travel services providers, we source and deliver premium food and packaging solutions that help create exceptional onboard experiences. Operating across the UK, Europe, USA, Australia and the UAE, we partner with world-class manufacturers to develop tailored products and packaging that meet the unique needs of our customers. Combining industry expertise with supply chain excellence, we manage complex global supply chains with precision, reliability and a relentless focus on quality, innovation and service. Trusted by some of aviation's most recognised brands, we operate with the scale and strength of a global business while maintaining the agility and entrepreneurial spirit of a fast-growing organisation. As we continue our exciting growth journey, we're looking for ambitious people who want to make a real impact. Join a collaborative, customer-focused business where ideas are valued, success is shared, and you'll have the opportunity to help shape what's next.
The Role: Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will take ownership of a key procurement category across the UK and Europe. Using a strategic category management approach, you will develop and implement sourcing strategies, manage supplier performance, and deliver commercial value while ensuring a resilient and effective supply base aligned to En Route's growth ambitions. This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with Supply Chain, Product Development, Technical, Commercial, and Packaging & Design teams to drive innovation, deliver cost efficiencies, and ensure outstanding service to our customers.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement category and supplier strategies that support business objectives and procurement plans.
- Manage supplier relationships across the UK and Europe, building strong partnerships that deliver commercial value and long-term performance.
- Lead supplier negotiations, contract management and commercial agreements.
- Identify and deliver cost savings, margin improvement and procurement optimisation opportunities.
- Monitor market trends, supply chain developments and category risks, taking proactive action to maximise opportunities and mitigate challenges.
- Drive supplier performance, continuous improvement initiatives and value creation programmes.
- Manage supplier onboarding, category reporting and action planning.
- Ensure supplier agreements support operational efficiency, product availability and excellent customer service levels.
- Partner with Product Development teams to source innovative products and solutions.
- Collaborate closely with Supply Chain, Technical, Commercial and Packaging & Design teams to achieve business objectives.
- Influence stakeholders across the business and champion procurement best practice.
Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience in a Category Manager, Senior Buyer or Procurement Manager role.
- Background within Aviation, Convenience, Retail, Wholesale, Foodservice or another fast-paced commercial environment.
- Strong procurement experience across food and beverage categories, ideally including chilled and fresh foods.
- Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, contract management and delivering measurable cost savings.
- Experience managing multiple categories and supplier portfolios simultaneously.
- Strong understanding of UK and European supply markets.
- Expertise in category management, strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management.
- Commercially astute with strong analytical and financial skills.
- Skilled communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders and build credibility at all levels.
- Proven ability to develop high-performing supplier partnerships and drive continuous improvement.
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, commercial governance and contract management.
- Highly organised, proactive and solutions-focused, with excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Collaborative approach with the ability to build effective relationships across multiple functions.
- Willingness to travel within the UK and Europe as required.
What's Important in This Role: You will be accountable for delivering commercial value through effective supplier negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, margin optimisation and strategic category management. Success in this role comes from balancing commercial performance with supplier collaboration, operational excellence and long-term business growth. At En Route International, you'll have the opportunity to work in a dynamic global business where procurement plays a critical role in driving growth and innovation. You'll be part of a collaborative team, working with leading suppliers and world-class travel customers while helping to shape the future of food and product solutions in the travel industry.
Benefits:
- Up to 15% bonus
- Private Medical Cover
- Life Cover
- Income Protection
- Critical Illness Cover
- Pension
- Social Events
- Holiday - 25 days per year plus your Birthday and Bank Holidays
- Gym Membership – 50% off at Snap Fitness, Windsor
- Hybrid working (2 days WFH)
We are committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we are dedicated to ensuring a fair and accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any adjustments or support during the application or interview stages, please let us know - we’re here to help! Regrettably, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond individually to every candidate. If you have not heard from us within 10 working days of submitting your application, unfortunately you have not been successful on this occasion. We take your privacy seriously. Any personal data you share with us during the application process will be handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws and used solely for recruitment purposes. Your information will be stored securely and retained only for as long as necessary.
Category Buying Manager in Windsor employer: En Route International
En Route International is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the travel catering industry. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems, all while being part of a global supply chain team dedicated to operational excellence. Our commitment to process improvements ensures that every team member can contribute meaningfully to our mission of delivering exceptional service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager in Windsor
✨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 En Route International.
✨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 Buying Manager in Windsor
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 En Route International:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to En Route International. 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 En Route International.
How to prepare for a job interview at En Route International
✨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 En Route International!
✨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 En Route International. 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 En Route International's culture.
