At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement of paper for innovative food packaging products.
- Company: Join EP Group, a global leader in packaging manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Travel opportunities and a chance to drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic industry while working with top suppliers.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in paper purchasing and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 58000 £ per year.
Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
EP Group is an award winning, global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and Southeast Asia. Our global headquarters in Birmingham is home to our dedicated paper manufacturing division providing a wide range of food packaging products for some of the worlds largest high street and online retail, grocery and FMCG customers. We are now seeking a Senior Buyer to manage the procurement of our paper for the manufacture of our products.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the end-to-end procurement process for all our paper
- Develop a deep understanding of our product range and their associated paper requirements
- Develop an understanding of our manufacturing capabilities in relation to how our paper is used to manufacture our products
- Build a strong network of paper suppliers, mills, agents, merchants and other players in the market
- Negotiate competitive terms
- Drive cost saving initiatives to deliver cost reductions across our paper sourcing
- Manage supplier evaluation, selection and ongoing quality reviews
- Extensive travel to the global supply base
- Approval of purchase orders in line with SAP release authorisation
- Drive stock reduction whilst maintaining availability in line with agreed service levels
- Ensure full group compliance of waste legislation obligations
- Ensure full compliance with the relevant BRC standard and customer standards
- Ensure full compliance with relevant Ethical standards
- Drive best practice process throughout our paper supply chain
- Identify trends in supply and demand for paper in relation to our business requirements, taking action to benefit the business
Key Requirements
- Extensive experience in the paper sector from a buying / purchasing perspective
- Strong understanding of paper converting / manufacturing products from paper
- Experience of high volume European and global purchasing including from SE Asia
- A strong network within the paper sector to include mills, suppliers, agents and merchants
- Understanding of SIOP in a paper converting or manufacturing environment
- Strategic approach to sourcing
- Demonstrable achievements in delivering cost savings
- Proven track record of delivering results in sourcing
- Strong communication / stakeholder management skills
- Commercially focused
- Skilled negotiator; hands–on approach to face‑to‑face negotiations with supply base
- Knowledge of MRP systems; SAP would be beneficial
Salary: £50,000.00-£55,000.00
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Purchasing and Supply Chain
Industries: Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage
Senior Buyer - Paper in Birmingham employer: EP Group
EP Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Birmingham that fosters innovation and collaboration within the global packaging industry. Employees benefit from extensive growth opportunities, a strong focus on sustainability, and a culture that values strategic thinking and negotiation skills, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - Paper in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the paper industry. Attend trade shows, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that Senior Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Do your homework on EP Group! Understand their product range and how they use paper in manufacturing. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show that you're genuinely interested in the company and its operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Buyer, you'll need to negotiate competitive terms with suppliers. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build your confidence and refine your approach before those face-to-face meetings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the EP Group team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer - Paper in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your experience in the paper sector and any relevant achievements in procurement. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the paper industry and how your strategic approach to sourcing can benefit us at EP Group. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Network:Don’t forget to mention your connections within the paper sector. A strong network of suppliers and mills can make a big difference, so let us know who you know and how you’ve leveraged those relationships in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at EP Group
✨Know Your Paper Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of paper types and their applications in manufacturing. Familiarise yourself with the products EP Group offers and how different papers are used in their production processes. This knowledge will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Network Like a Pro
Leverage your existing connections in the paper sector. If you know any suppliers or agents, reach out to them for insights about current market trends. Mentioning these connections during your interview can demonstrate your proactive approach and strong network within the industry.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant cost savings or improved supplier terms. Be ready to discuss your hands-on approach to face-to-face negotiations, as this is crucial for the Senior Buyer role. Highlighting your strategic thinking in sourcing will set you apart.
✨Understand Compliance and Standards
Brush up on BRC standards and waste legislation obligations relevant to the paper industry. Being able to discuss how you ensure compliance in your procurement processes will reflect your attention to detail and commitment to quality, which are key for this position.
