At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing events and develop innovative procurement strategies for major energy projects.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in the energy transition and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, generous pension, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available in Warwick or Birmingham with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy future while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic sourcing, strong negotiation skills, and excellent stakeholder management.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 57000 £ per year.
At National Grid, we're at the heart of the energy transition, connecting millions of people to the energy they use every day.
As we invest in building and upgrading the network needed for a cleaner, more secure energy future, procurement plays a vital role in delivering the infrastructure, partnerships and innovation that make it possible.
We're looking for a
Senior Category Buyer to join our Procurement team and help shape the sourcing strategies that support some of the UK's most significant energy projects.
Reporting to a
Category Manager , you'll play a key role in delivering strategic procurement activity across your assigned category portfolio.
You'll partner with business stakeholders, project teams, suppliers and delivery partners to develop sourcing strategies, manage complex procurement events and deliver value for money while supporting National Grid's ambitious investment programme.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced procurement professional who enjoys combining commercial expertise with stakeholder engagement to deliver tangible business outcomes.
This role can be based in either our
Warwick or Birmingham office on a hybrid basis.
What you'll do
- Deliver multiple strategic sourcing events across your category portfolio, ensuring best value and alignment to business objectives.
- Support the development and execution of category strategies, identifying opportunities to drive value, innovation and supply chain resilience.
- Partner with stakeholders to understand and challenge demand, ensuring the most effective procurement solutions are implemented.
- Lead end-to-end sourcing activities, from market engagement and tendering through to negotiation and contract award.
- Work with Project Managers and Construction Delivery Partners to support the successful delivery of contracted activities.
- Profile supply markets, assess supplier capabilities and identify trends, opportunities and risks to support informed decision making.
- Develop and manage commercial assessment models to support complex procurement decisions.
- Identify continuous improvement opportunities through effective supplier and stakeholder engagement.
- Provide guidance and support to Buyers and Associate Buyers, championing procurement excellence and best practice.
- Support assurance activities to demonstrate value for money across procurement activity and project delivery.
- What you'll need
- Significant experience in strategic sourcing and category management.
- Proven ability to manage complex procurement activities and deliver commercial outcomes.
- Experience developing and implementing sourcing strategies.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to lead negotiations and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience developing and evaluating commercial models.
- Knowledge of contract development and contract management principles.
- Understanding of project management methodologies and experience managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- What you'll get
- A competitive salary between
(dependent on capability and experience).
As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
- More information
- This role closes on
Tuesday 25th August at 23:59; however, we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
At National Grid, we work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people.
Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be.
We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.
National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system.
As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system.
However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship.
All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
National Grid operates in both the UK and US, with a broad portfolio of energy businesses dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and sustainable power.
From electricity and gas transmission to advancing clean energy and modernising grids, our work covers every aspect of the energy system.
Our energy flows through absolutely everything we do
Life here at National Grid is more than just our purpose or our values, it's everything we put into everything we do. It's all this, and so much more.
We leverage our collective strengths to do meaningful BIG work so that we can be at the heart of a fair and affordable energy future.
Your salary is reviewed each year against the market for your role, skills, knowledge and experience.
Incentive
Annual performance plan or bonus (depending on your role) rewards your contribution to our success each year.
Retirement
Generous pension plan with company contributions up to 12%.
Private medical insurance for self and family.
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Senior Category Buyer in Warwick employer: National Grid plc
At National Grid, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. As a Manager – Group Technical Accounting in our London office, you will benefit from hybrid working arrangements, competitive salaries, and a robust pension scheme, alongside opportunities for personal and professional growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the unique advantages of working in one of the world's leading energy companies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Buyer in Warwick
✨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 Grid plc.
✨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 Category Buyer in Warwick
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 Grid plc:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to National Grid plc. 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 Grid plc.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid plc
✨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 Grid plc!
✨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 Grid plc. 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 Grid plc's culture.
