At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement activities for a cleaner, sustainable energy future.
- Company: Join NESO, a key player in Great Britain's energy transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the energy sector while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Reporting to the Procurement Manager – Indirects and Professional Services, the Senior Buyer (Indirects) leads and delivers procurement activities for NESO within a regulated environment. The role works closely with stakeholders to forecast demand pipelines, develop category and sourcing strategies, and design and deliver compliant sourcing events. All procurement activity is documented to ensure full regulatory and governance compliance.
The Senior Buyer develops and reviews sourcing strategies across assigned spend categories, collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve effective commercial outcomes. Responsibilities include managing the end-to-end procurement lifecycle, from strategy and tendering (in line with PCR/UCR and PA23 routes to market) through to negotiation and contract award, while driving value-based performance.
A strong focus is placed on stakeholder and supplier relationship management, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement. The role also ensures effective risk management and value creation, delivering compliance and value for money across NESO’s indirect spend.
This role can be based in Warwick or Wokingham, and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements.
Key Accountabilities
- Leading a portfolio of strategic sourcing events across indirect categories, from strategy, preliminary market engagement and procurement through to contract award, applying the most effective sourcing strategies to ensure timely delivery of compliant and commercially robust outcomes.
- Developing and issuing sourcing documentation (e.g. RFPs), managing supplier engagement, and leading negotiations to secure best value.
- Presenting sourcing recommendations for approval at an Executive level by demonstrating expertise on the procurement process followed and by providing a clear rationale to support decisions.
- Driving value creation through demand management, aggregation, supplier innovation, and effective market competition.
- Ensuring compliance with PA23/PCR and NESO governance requirements, maintaining robust controls, risk management, and audit-ready documentation.
- Collaborating with stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver commercially effective, value-for-money sourcing solutions.
- Conducting market and supplier analysis to inform category strategies and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
- Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships, managing performance and driving continuous improvement across the supply base.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements.
About You
We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we need visionary minds like yours to join us on this transformative journey. In this case, we’re looking for someone who has:
- Public sector experience and familiarity of working with UCR, PCR2015 and the Procurement Act 2023 is essential for this role.
- Expert influencing and negotiation skills to drive optimum value by awarding commercially sound and compliant contracts.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships across supplier and stakeholder groups.
- Strong commercial acumen and experienced negotiator who is skilled in using a range of negotiating tactics to achieve commercial and non-commercial outcomes.
- Strategic procurement experience in complex environments.
- Entrepreneurial, ability to deal with ambiguity, progressive, procurement professional with attention to details on compliance and assurance.
What You'll Get
A competitive salary of £55,000 - £60,000 dependent on experience and capability. As well as your base salary, NESO's core benefits are the essential perks and advantages that form part of your employee package:
- You will receive a bonus based on company performance.
- 26 days annual leave as standard.
- A competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
- Annual Enrollment to NESO Savings Plan, when you save between £20- £500 a month from your take-home pay, we will pay a 50% matching contribution.
NESO's flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits, here's just a few available:
- Flexible Bank Holidays & Holiday Trading.
- Additional Birthday Day Off.
- Cycle to Work Scheme, Retail & Gym Discounts.
- Private Medical Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance & Personal Accident Insurance.
About Us
At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we play a vital role in tackling climate change and securing Great Britain's energy future. We already operate the world's fastest decarbonising electricity system and are working towards our ambition to run it carbon-free for a short period this year - provided the market supplies electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Alongside this, we provide expert advice to government on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030.
In autumn 2024, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) transitioned to become NESO - an independent, expert public corporation with a whole-system view across electricity, gas, and hydrogen. NESO operates independently and transparently, always acting in the best interests of all energy users.
Licensed and regulated by Ofgem, we make impartial decisions that balance sustainability, affordability and security. Our organisation is fully independent from government, the regulator and all commercial interests, with a clear focus on system-wide benefit, long term thinking and public value.
The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future. Your energy. Our future. Together.
This role closes at 23:59, on the day before date shown above, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
Research shows that some people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement. At NESO, we believe potential comes in many forms and we're committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment process where everyone has the opportunity to show their talents. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Senior Buyer (Indirects) in Wokingham employer: National Energy System Operator
The National Energy System Operator is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Warwick that fosters collaboration and innovation in the energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits, including bonuses and a pension scheme, this role not only provides meaningful work in regulatory law but also supports your professional growth in a vital industry focused on sustainability.
Contact Details:
National Energy System Operator Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer (Indirects) in Wokingham
✨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 National Energy System Operator.
✨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 Senior Buyer (Indirects) in Wokingham
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 National Energy System Operator:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to National Energy System Operator. 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 National Energy System Operator.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Energy System Operator
✨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 National Energy System Operator!
✨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 National Energy System Operator. 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 National Energy System Operator's culture.
