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- Tasks: Assist Category Managers with pricing enquiries and maintain accurate internal price lists.
- Company: Join EP Group, a global leader in packaging for top retailers.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team making an impact in the packaging industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchasing and strong attention to detail required.
- Other info: Great chance to develop skills and build a career in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
EP Group is a global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and South East Asia. We specialise in a range of paper and plastic based packaging products, selling to many of the world’s largest retailers including Marks & Spencer, Amazon and McDonalds.
Location: Birmingham / Onsite
We have an opportunity for a Category Assistant to join our purchasing team in our Birmingham Head Office. The role will be responsible for assisting the Category Managers with day to day pricing enquiries from our sales teams. The Category Assistant will research and source pricing and product information and accurately maintain internal price lists. If you are a motivated, driven and highly organised individual who has a good eye for detail and accuracy, we would like to hear from you!
Role purpose
To manage all of the day to day enquiries, queries and admin tasks within the category, providing other departments within the business with accurate information in a timely manner. Providing support to the category manager & wider department with any project or reporting work that arises, ensuring all timescales are met and work is done to the required standard. Researching the market and supply base at sub-category level and keeping records of the information gathered.
Key responsibilities
- Requests for pricing: complete enquiries accurately and within defined timescales.
- Data: ensure data regarding product, suppliers etc is set up and maintained accurately.
- Account support: be the first point of contact for the account support functions.
- Reports: generate and maintain departmental and category specific reports e.g. Category spend/margin, Raw Material tracking.
- Meetings: attend supplier meetings, prepare pre-meeting reports with KPI trackers and take and file minutes.
- New suppliers: research, assess and make initial contact with potential new suppliers, updating the supplier intelligence matrix.
- Samples: organise and label supplier samples, rotating new/obsolete to ensure storage is available at all times.
- Sub Category Management: take ownership of a sub-category, producing a cost saving plan and undertaking tender activity.
Essential experience / special requirements
- Experience in a purchasing/buying role dealing directly with overseas suppliers.
- This is a fast paced environment and attention to detail is paramount, as is the ability to communicate with people internally and externally on all levels.
- Second language would be of benefit.
- Good level of numeracy.
- Prioritisation abilities.
- Ability to self-manage.
Technical / functional skills:
- Experience of using SAP beneficial, but not essential.
- Excel.
- Outlook.
- Word.
- PowerPoint.
- Negotiation skills.
Category Assistant in Birmingham employer: EP Group
Contact Detail:
EP Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Assistant in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how a personal connection can make all the difference when it comes to landing that Category Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching EP Group and understanding their products and market position. We recommend jotting down key points about their packaging solutions and how you can contribute to their success. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to purchasing and data management. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. We believe this shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Assistant in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience in purchasing or dealing with suppliers, and don’t forget to showcase your attention to detail and organisational skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Mention specific examples of how you've handled pricing enquiries or managed data in the past.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t be shy about your skills! If you’ve got experience with Excel, SAP, or any other relevant tools, make sure to mention them. We love seeing candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at EP Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Category Assistant, you'll be dealing with pricing and data management. Brush up on your numeracy skills and be prepared to discuss how you've handled data in previous roles. Bring examples of reports or analyses you've done to showcase your attention to detail.
✨Research the Company
Familiarise yourself with EP Group and their product range. Understand their market position and who their major clients are. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations, like managing tight deadlines or resolving pricing discrepancies. Think of past experiences where you've successfully navigated similar challenges and be ready to share those stories.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires a high level of organisation, be ready to discuss your methods for keeping track of tasks and priorities. You might even want to bring a sample of a project plan or a tool you use to stay organised, as this can demonstrate your proactive approach.
