At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships for impactful outcomes.
- Company: Join Carnival UK, a leader in creating unforgettable holiday experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, employee discounts, health plans, and generous leave.
- Other info: Hybrid work options available, fostering a balance between work and life.
- Why this job: Be a key player in driving innovation and change within a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in procurement processes are essential.
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.
Key responsibilities include:
- 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.
- Act as a trusted Procurement Business Partner for both projects and operational teams, embedding procurement as a strategic enabler and leading change initiatives across Carnival UK.
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.
What You'll Bring:
Your unique background and skills are what will make you stand out. We're looking for:
- 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.
Application Guidance:
Diversity is our strength, and we encourage applications from those with varied experiences, whether you meet every listed requirement or not. If you’re passionate about Procurement and are looking for an opportunity to grow, we’d love to hear from you.
Why Join Us?
Working with us means more than just a role in Procurement. It’s about being part of a team that values well-being and personal growth. Here’s what we offer:
- 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
Due to the popularity of our roles and our commitment to finding the best talent, we might close applications earlier than advertised. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to become part of a team dedicated to creating unforgettable holiday happiness. Apply today to start your journey with us.
Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton employer: Holland America Line Inc
Carnival UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and personal growth, offering a vibrant work culture where innovation thrives. As a Senior Buyer in IT, you will enjoy a hybrid working model, competitive benefits including discounted cruising, generous leave, and opportunities for professional development, all while being part of a collaborative team dedicated to delivering value-driven outcomes. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a role that empowers you to lead change and drive strategic procurement initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who work at Carnival UK or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Carnival UK's procurement strategies and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of how you can contribute to our IT category sourcing strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role requires excellent negotiation abilities, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor. This will help you feel more confident when discussing contracts and supplier management during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Carnival UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer - IT in Southampton
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 supplier management experience, as these are key for us at Carnival UK.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about procurement and how your unique background can bring fresh ideas to our team. Be genuine and let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Project Management Skills:Since project management is at the heart of this role, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed complex procurement activities in the past. We want to see your autonomy and leadership in action!
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
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 specific examples of successful negotiations you've led. Highlight how you drafted and managed contracts, especially those with varying values and complexities. This will demonstrate your expertise and give the interviewers confidence in your abilities.
✨Be a Collaborative Partner
Emphasise your ability to work independently while also being a team player. Share instances where you’ve partnered with cross-functional stakeholders to drive value and change. This aligns perfectly with the role’s requirement for a collaborative mindset.
✨Bring Fresh Ideas
Think about innovative strategies or fresh perspectives you could bring to the IT category sourcing strategy. Prepare to discuss how you can embed procurement as a strategic enabler within the organisation. This will show that you’re proactive and ready to contribute from day one.
