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- Tasks: Join our team as an Associate Category Buyer, driving strategic sourcing and managing tender events.
- Company: National Grid connects homes and businesses to power, ensuring a clean energy future.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative era in energy, contributing to Net Zero goals and impactful procurement strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and a relevant degree or apprenticeship; CIPS qualification is a plus.
- Other info: This full-time role is based in Warwick, UK, with applications encouraged before the closing date.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About us
- Support multiple strategic sourcing events within portfolio, working with Senior Buyers, Category Managers and with stakeholders to understand and challenge demand and ensure the best possible solutions for National Grid.
- Support Senior Buyers and Category Manager in developing category characteristics, researching supply markets, suppliers and assessing trends, opportunities and risks.
- Feedback insights to Category Managers and Senior Buyers to drive the continuous improvement of category strategy and performance.
- Execute standardized strategic sourcing processes from market engagement through to award, ensuring goods and services are procured in a best-in-class manner that drives value.
- Work with Contract Managers to ensure the successful delivery of contracted activities, identifying continuous improvement opportunities through engagement with suppliers and stakeholders, and maximizing value for money from contracts awarded.
- Deliver value by effectively managing tender events for key products required by the business.
- Contribute to an effective forward planning process by identifying future requirements of supported areas and ensure robust forecasting is put in place that maximizes value of goods and services procured.
- Scope and develops regional contractual agreements that meet the customer stakeholder requirements and expectations.
Qualifications
- Degree level or equivalent
- MCIPS or willingness to work towards it
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Associate Category Buyer employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the procurement processes specific to the energy sector. Understanding how strategic sourcing works in this industry will give you an edge when discussing your insights and ideas during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in procurement, especially those who have experience in capital equipment and engineering services. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could help you land the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on market trends and challenges within the energy sector. Being able to discuss current events and their impact on procurement strategies will demonstrate your passion and knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your project management skills by discussing past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Highlighting your organisational abilities will resonate well with the expectations of the Associate Category Buyer role.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, especially any involvement in tender events or strategic sourcing. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for procurement and your understanding of National Grid's goals, particularly their commitment to a Net Zero future. Mention specific skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the Associate Category Buyer role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills such as project management, communication, and data analysis in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles to support your candidacy.
Show Enthusiasm for Continuous Learning: Mention your willingness to pursue a CIPS qualification and your proactive attitude towards learning and growth in the procurement field. This shows your commitment to professional development and aligns with National Grid's values.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Associate Category Buyer. Familiarise yourself with strategic sourcing processes and how they apply to National Grid's procurement initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your experience with procurement tender events, especially in Capital Equipment or Engineering Services. Highlight any relevant projects you've managed and how you navigated challenges in sourcing.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since the role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to provide examples of how you've built relationships and engaged with different teams in past roles.
✨Express Your Passion for Net Zero Goals
National Grid is focused on achieving a Net Zero future. Share your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and how you can contribute to their mission. Discuss any relevant experiences that align with their values of 'finding a better way' and 'doing the right thing.'
