At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement activities and build strong supplier relationships.
- Company: Join a fast-paced, growing business in Stockport.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with competitive salary and career growth.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with a supportive team and develop professionally.
- Why this job: Make a real impact with your negotiation skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
We are looking for a commercially focused and proactive Buyer to join our growing team. In this role, you will play a key part in managing procurement activities and developing strong supplier relationships, ensuring the timely and cost-effective delivery of goods and services. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong negotiation and supply chain skills who is looking to make a real impact within a fast-paced and growing business.
Key Responsibilities
- Support procurement and purchasing activities across the business
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Assist with supplier reviews and performance monitoring
- Raise and manage purchase orders accurately and efficiently
- Work closely with Accounts Payable to support smooth P2P processes
- Support negotiations on pricing, contracts, and supplier agreements
- Help identify cost-saving and process improvement opportunities
- Monitor supplier compliance and support risk management activities
- Assist with procurement reporting and spend analysis
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Essential
- Previous experience in a Buyer or Procurement role
- Strong understanding of procurement processes and supplier management
- Good negotiation and communication skills
- Ability to build strong working relationships with suppliers and stakeholders
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities
- Experience using procurement software, ERP systems, or e-procurement platforms
Desirable
- Knowledge of strategic sourcing and contract negotiation techniques
- Previous experience analysing procurement or spend data
- Professional accreditation or working towards CIPS qualification
Buyer in Stockport employer: OCU Group
At OCU, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the utilities and energy sector, offering a dynamic work environment in Reading that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ongoing training and development opportunities, ensuring that our team members are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in high voltage electrical systems. With a strong focus on safety and excellence, we provide a supportive culture where every individual can thrive and contribute to impactful projects that shape the future of infrastructure engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Stockport
✨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 OCU Group.
✨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 Buyer in Stockport
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 OCU Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to OCU Group. 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 OCU Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at OCU Group
✨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 OCU Group!
✨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 OCU Group. 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 OCU Group's culture.
