At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement, manage contracts, and drive supplier relationships for impactful outcomes.
- Company: Join Carnival UK, a leader in innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on cruising, generous leave, health plans, and more.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in procurement while working with a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in supplier management required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
As part of our continuing journey of growth and innovation at Carnival UK, we are seeking an Information Technology Senior Buyer to bring fresh perspective, strong expertise and commercial leadership to our Procurement function. In this pivotal role, you will take full ownership of end-to-end procurement activity across the IT category. With project management at the heart of the sourcing process, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, partnering closely with senior stakeholders across the business to deliver meaningful, value driven outcomes. This role is positioned at CUK08 level within our organization and is available on a full-time, fixed term basis until February 2027. We offer hybrid work including up to two days from home.
Responsibilities:
- Develop, implement and lead the IT category sourcing strategy, managing ongoing commercial, operational, quality and risk requirements across the portfolio.
- Lead and execute tendering, negotiation, contracting and contract management activities across significant spend areas, while driving strong Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) to ensure optimum service, value and performance.
What You’ll Bring:
- Excellent negotiation skills, including experience drafting and managing contracts of varying values and complexity.
- Strong supplier management and Service Level Agreement management capability.
- Knowledge of purchasing systems, procurement processes, and contractual frameworks.
- Up-to-date MS Office skills, with strong Excel capability.
About You: The Ideal Candidate
- The ability to work independently with minimal guidance while managing complex procurement activity.
- Confidence and credibility when communicating complex issues to cross‑functional stakeholders.
- A collaborative, business‑partnering mindset.
- A proactive approach, bringing fresh ideas and different perspectives to drive value and change.
Benefits:
- Employee Discounted Cruising plus Friends and Family offers.
- Annual bonus.
- Minimum 25 days leave, bank holiday allowance and holiday trading scheme.
- Company paid Health Cash Plan and health assessment.
- In‑house Occupational Health help and access to digital GP.
- Life Assurance.
- Employee Shares Plan.
- Electric Car and Cycle to Work schemes.
- Discounted retail and leisure via discounts portal.
Senior Buyer - IT in Eastleigh employer: Holland America Line Inc
At Carnival UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. As a Senior Buyer in IT, you will enjoy a hybrid working model, competitive benefits including employee discounts on cruising, and ample opportunities for professional growth within a supportive environment. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a work-life balance that prioritises your well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - IT in Eastleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. We recommend diving deep into Carnival UK's values and recent projects. This way, you can tailor your responses to show how you align with their mission and how your skills can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to get comfortable with common questions. We want you to feel confident when discussing your negotiation skills and procurement experience, so rehearse those key points until they roll off your tongue.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We suggest mentioning something specific from your conversation to show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer - IT in Eastleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your negotiation skills and any relevant procurement experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed procurement activities and built strong supplier relationships.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills:Since project management is key in this role, be sure to mention any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how you’ve driven value and change in previous positions!
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 this exciting opportunity at Carnival UK!
How to prepare for a job interview at Holland America Line Inc
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement processes and contractual frameworks. Be ready to discuss your experience with tendering, negotiation, and supplier management. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but can also handle complex scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you’ve successfully managed contracts of varying values. Highlight how you’ve driven value and performance through strong Supplier Relationship Management (SRM). This will demonstrate your capability in a key area for the role.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Practice articulating complex issues clearly and confidently. You’ll be working with senior stakeholders, so being able to communicate effectively is crucial. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points and show your collaborative mindset.
✨Bring Fresh Ideas
Think about innovative approaches you could bring to the IT category sourcing strategy. Prepare to discuss how you can drive value and change within the procurement function. This proactive approach will resonate well with the interviewers looking for someone who can think outside the box.
