At a Glance
- Tasks: Own and grow a tech product category using data-driven strategies.
- Company: Fast-growing IT solutions business in Central Birmingham.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, tech discounts, gym access, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential to advance to Strategic Account Director.
- Why this job: Blend traditional buying with modern digital strategies for real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT buying or procurement and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
I'm seeking a Category Buyer for a fast-growing, digitally driven IT solutions business. You will own and develop a defined technology product category through a platform-led, data-driven approach. This role blends traditional category management with modern digital buying behaviours. You'll work closely with sales, marketing and product data teams, as well as vendors and distributors, to improve category performance, visibility and profitability.
Duties of the Category Buyer:
- Owning and growing a technology product category through digital channels
- Managing vendor and distributor relationships, including commercial negotiations
- Driving pricing, promotions and rebate activity to maximise margin
- Ensuring product content, pricing and availability are accurate and competitive
- Acting as the internal expert for your category, supporting sales and key customers
- Analysing buying trends and market data to identify growth opportunities
Skills of the Category Buyer:
- Experience in a category, buying or procurement role within IT or technology
- Strong understanding of the IT market and supplier landscape
- Proven negotiation and commercially focused decision-making skills
- Confident communicator with a data-led, proactive approach
- Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating commercial terms
Benefits for the Category Buyer:
- Hybrid working and a modern city-centre office
- Structured progression to Strategic Account Director or Sales Leadership
- Tech discounts, electric car scheme and pension
- Life insurance, employee assistance programme, gym access and holiday trading scheme + more!
Please note as we receive a high level of applications we can only respond to applicants whose skills & qualifications are suitable for this position. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010.
Category Buyer in Birmingham employer: Hunter Selection Limited
Contact Detail:
Hunter Selection Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect 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
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in category management and procurement. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on how your data-driven approach has led to successful outcomes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Tailor your application to showcase how your skills align with the role of Category Buyer and make sure to follow up after applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Category Buyer. Highlight your experience in category management and any relevant IT or technology roles. 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 this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your data-driven approach and negotiation skills!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive category performance and manage supplier relationships. Numbers and results speak volumes, so let us see what you've accomplished!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hunter Selection Limited
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the technology product category you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key players, and market dynamics. This will not only show your passion but also demonstrate that you can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of past negotiations you've successfully handled. Whether it's securing better pricing or improving supplier terms, having concrete stories ready will highlight your commercial acumen and ability to drive profitability.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since this role emphasises a data-led approach, come prepared with insights from your previous experiences. Discuss how you've used data to inform buying decisions or identify growth opportunities. This will illustrate your analytical mindset and strategic thinking.
✨Communicate Confidently
As a Category Buyer, you'll need to liaise with various teams and stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Role-playing common interview questions with a friend can help you refine your communication skills and ensure you make a strong impression.