At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage diverse product categories and drive innovative purchasing strategies.
- Company: Award-winning global packaging manufacturer with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced industry while working with top brands.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
EP Group is an award winning, global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and South East Asia. Our global headquarters in Birmingham is home to our dedicated paper manufacturing division providing a wide range of food packaging products for the likes of McDonalds, Amazon, Marks & Spencer and Greggs. We are fully BRC accredited, delivering globally recognised standards in quality, safety and responsibility.
We are now seeking a Buyer / Category Manager to join our dynamic purchasing team to autonomously manage a diverse category and product range. The role will involve working with existing suppliers and sourcing new suppliers on a global basis to best support our needs and the needs of our customers. Reporting into the Head of Purchasing, you will be supported by a team of Category Assistants to develop and drive the category strategy and grow the category in terms of sales and profitability.
Key Accountabilities:- Creation and execution of category strategy to grow the category in terms of both sales and profitability.
- Develop Category plans in line with strategy.
- Develop annual calendar of supplier tenders.
- Drive best cost first time initiatives through the purchasing department.
- Plan for future development within the category and wider business requirements.
- Plan supplier and trade show visits.
- Supplier base management to ensure company is dealing with the most appropriate suppliers to deliver its objectives.
- Understanding processes and costs involved with manufacturing, raw materials and distribution through to end use.
- Drive innovation working with internal departments to develop new ideas to future proof the business.
- Category and product life-cycle management.
- Holistic category and product knowledge to provide subject matter expertise both internally and to customers.
- Being the final point of escalation for internal stakeholder issues within the purchasing department.
- Experience of managing a category within a purchasing function.
- Experience in retail, packaging or FMCG would be a distinct advantage.
- Be results focussed and be able to demonstrate a record of successful cost reduction activities.
- Be an experienced negotiator.
- Demonstrated experience of driving a category strategy with clear achievements in terms of profitability, reduced spend or increased margins.
- Be able to work autonomously and as part of a team.
- Be commercially focussed.
- Be a strong communicator.
Buyer / Category Manager in Birmingham employer: Euro Packaging UK Limited
EP Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the packaging industry. Located in Birmingham, our global headquarters provides employees with opportunities for professional growth and development, supported by a dedicated team and a commitment to quality and sustainability. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company that values your contributions and invests in your future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer / Category Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching EP Group and understanding their products and market position. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing categories and driving profitability.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills! Be ready to discuss past experiences where you successfully reduced costs or improved supplier relationships. This will demonstrate your value as a Buyer / Category Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer / Category Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Buyer / Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing categories and any relevant achievements in cost reduction or profitability. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your negotiation skills and category strategy successes. Let us know how you can contribute to our dynamic purchasing team.
Showcase Your Industry Knowledge:Since we’re in the packaging and FMCG sectors, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of these industries. Mention any relevant experience or insights you have about suppliers, trends, or innovations that could benefit EP Group.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Euro Packaging UK Limited
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the category you'll be managing. Understand the trends, key players, and challenges in the packaging industry. This will not only show your passion but also your readiness to take on the role.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant cost reductions or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your strategies and how they can be applied to EP Group's needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
Think about how you would create and execute a category strategy for EP Group. Bring ideas to the table that align with their goals of growth in sales and profitability. This shows initiative and a proactive mindset.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Innovation
EP Group values innovation, so come prepared with ideas on how to drive new initiatives within the category. Think about how you can collaborate with internal departments to bring fresh concepts to life.
