At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing of goods, negotiate agreements, and analyse market trends.
- Company: Join a fast-growing UK hub in a global eCommerce business.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment focused on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in reshaping the delivery universe with innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency in ERP systems.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Want to be part of a UK hub, in a global business that is scaling rapidly, evolving fast and radically changing the decades-old delivery universe? If so, read on, as we’re looking for a Strategic Buyer to join our team! Our mission? To switch up the status quo and become the UK’s leading out-of-home business. With a fast-growing network of thousands of smart lockers, hundreds of leading retail partners and the launch of our transformative Send service, we’re bringing freedom to anyone with a parcel.
At InPost UK, we’re building an unparalleled group of talent that’s committed to help us power our mission to reshape the way parcels move, and redefine eCommerce logistics. Our team is packed full of top‑notch experts in e‑commerce, technology, scale‑up growth, sustainability, logistics and supply chain. We’re a passionate bunch with high ambition – we collaborate, innovate, support each other, and leave egos at the door.
About the role: We’re looking for a Strategic Buyer who brings commercial edge, supplier savvy, and a drive to make things happen. If you thrive on negotiation, love analysing markets, and want real ownership from day one — this is your role.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead end‑to‑end sourcing of goods and services — RFIs, RFQs and RFPs from start to signature.
- Negotiate and close commercial agreements that protect InPost and deliver genuine value.
- Run ongoing market analysis to spot opportunities and stay ahead of category trends.
- Qualify, evaluate and build lasting relationships with key suppliers.
- Execute the UK procurement strategy, hitting defined KPIs with clear, regular reporting.
- Collaborate across every InPost division to deliver procurement projects on time.
- Work confidently in SAP and other ERP platforms as part of your day‑to‑day.
What we need from you: We’re looking for people who are ready for a fast paced environment, get their kicks out of problem solving and can balance getting today’s stuff done, whilst building for the future. We’re looking for people with drive and natural curiosity – who want to do things differently. And do them brilliantly.
Experience in indirect procurement within a relevant category.
Strong Source‑to‑Pay process knowledge.
Proficient in MS Office and ERP systems (SAP a plus).
Comfortable with PESTEL and Porter’s Five Forces.
Sharp negotiator with a results‑first mindset.
Experience in an international or matrix organisation.
CIPS qualification or equivalent is desirable but not a show stopper.
You’ll also be:
- Self‑sufficient and confident acting independently.
- Skilled at building trust with internal and external stakeholders.
- Quality‑focused and highly organised.
We strive to create an open, equal, inclusive environment in which everyone has the opportunity to flourish and be themselves.
Strategic Buyer employer: InPost UK
At InPost UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. As a Strategic Buyer, you'll be part of a rapidly scaling global business where your contributions directly impact our mission to revolutionise eCommerce logistics. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and personal development, all while working in the heart of the UK's evolving delivery landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Buyer
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like InPost UK.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to InPost UK:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to InPost UK. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like InPost UK.
How to prepare for a job interview at InPost UK
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at InPost UK!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at InPost UK. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into InPost UK's culture.
