Buyer

Buyer

Heywood Full-Time 27000 - 37800 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our procurement team to manage and develop supplier relationships.
  • Company: We are the UK's largest packaging distributor, committed to innovation and customer service.
  • Benefits: Enjoy up to 27 days holiday, flexible benefits, and a contributory pension scheme.
  • Why this job: Be part of a supportive culture that values professional development and social impact.
  • Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills are essential.
  • Other info: Opportunities for training, progression, and employee discounts await you!

The predicted salary is between 27000 - 37800 £ per year.

Buyer
Location: Heywood
Package: Basic salary up to £27,000 plus bonus & flexible benefits package including up to 27 days holiday (Plus additional annual leave purchasing scheme)
Sector: Packaging distribution

The Company
We, the UK’s largest packaging distributor have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Buyer to join our procurement team in Heywood. We are a committed equal opportunities employer that champions ‘dignity in the workplace’. Our focus is to provide customers with fully integrated and innovative packaging solutions, augmented by outstanding customer service. Our procurement functionality is a vital part of our solution offering and we continually invest in the professional development of our team including CIPS accredited training.

The Buyer Role
Working as a member of our local procurement team, the Buyer role will support the site at which you are based whilst upholding the company wide National procurement strategy. This is an excellent opportunity, and your appointment to this exciting position will be integral to the overall success of our business, as you will be instrumental in helping to coordinate the management and development of the regional supplier base.

Buyer Key Duties

  • Managing a large portfolio of new business and existing suppliers
  • Sourcing and negotiating with suppliers, challenging prices where relevant
  • Ensuring supplies adhere to quality, service and best practise initiatives
  • Managing performance of the supplier base
  • Assisting with tender activity, product enquiries and ad-hoc project work
  • Purchasing of standard and non-standard stock items
  • Carrying out supplier benchmarking activities
  • Reporting and statistical analysis
  • Upholding procurement strategy
  • Maximising profitability and minimising risk to the Business
  • Undertaking stock control and administration activities
  • 25 days annual leave (rising to 27 days with service) plus all public/bank holidays
  • Additional Holiday purchasing scheme (run annually)
  • Contributory pension scheme
  • Free parking at the majority of our site locations
  • Annual (company paid) volunteering day
  • Range of company cars or cash allowance (including hybrid/electric) for qualifying job roles
  • Employee assistance program to support & advise with well-being & any issues
  • Extensive range of training/development & potential progression opportunities
  • Employee discount scheme (discounts on several major retail/leisure brands)
  • Simply Health/Dental Cover option or BUPA cover for qualifying roles
  • Enhanced HR policies relating to various employee rights & entitlements
  • Long service awards (5-40 years)
  • Charitable giving options
  • Financial support with eye-tests/purchasing glasses (DSE users only)
  • O2 Mobile discount scheme (up to 25% off)
  • Candidate referral scheme (awards £750 for referring successful applicants to Macfarlane job vacancies)
  • Buyer employer: MacFarlane Group

    As the UK’s largest packaging distributor, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values dignity in the workplace and invests in the professional development of our employees. Located in Heywood, our procurement team enjoys a supportive work culture with flexible benefits, including up to 27 days of holiday, a contributory pension scheme, and opportunities for career progression through CIPS accredited training. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that champions innovation and outstanding customer service while enjoying unique perks like an annual volunteering day and employee discounts.
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    Contact Detail:

    MacFarlane Group Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Buyer

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Familiarise yourself with the packaging distribution sector. Understanding industry trends and key players will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the role.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Network with professionals in procurement and supply chain management. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities within our company.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Brush up on your negotiation skills. As a Buyer, you'll need to negotiate prices and terms with suppliers, so consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to build your confidence.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Research our company's procurement strategy and values. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with our goals will show that you're not just interested in any job, but specifically in contributing to our team at StudySmarter.

    We think you need these skills to ace Buyer

    Negotiation Skills
    Supplier Relationship Management
    Analytical Skills
    Cost Analysis
    Market Research
    Inventory Management
    Communication Skills
    Attention to Detail
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Project Management
    Statistical Analysis
    Understanding of Procurement Strategies
    Risk Management
    Time Management

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supplier management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to source, negotiate, and manage suppliers effectively.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the packaging industry and your understanding of the company's values. Mention how your skills align with the role of Buyer and how you can contribute to their procurement strategy.

    Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills such as negotiation, analytical thinking, and supplier performance management. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.

    Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Buyer role.

    How to prepare for a job interview at MacFarlane Group

    ✨Research the Company

    Before your interview, take some time to learn about the company’s values, mission, and recent developments. Understanding their focus on customer service and innovative packaging solutions will help you align your answers with their goals.

    ✨Prepare for Supplier Scenarios

    Since the role involves managing a large portfolio of suppliers, be ready to discuss your experience in sourcing and negotiating. Prepare specific examples where you successfully challenged prices or improved supplier performance.

    ✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

    The Buyer role requires reporting and statistical analysis. Be prepared to talk about your experience with data analysis and how you've used it to make informed purchasing decisions in the past.

    ✨Ask Insightful Questions

    At the end of the interview, ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their procurement strategy or how they measure supplier performance to show that you’re thinking critically about the position.

    Buyer
    MacFarlane Group
    Location: Heywood
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