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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial tenders and negotiations while optimising the supply base.
- Company: Join Sainsbury's, a fast-paced FTSE business making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, discounts, bonuses, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving change and sustainability in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement with strong communication and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and ideas.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Salary: Competitive Plus Benefits
Location: Holborn Store Support Centre and Home, London, EC1N 2HT
Contract type: Permanent
Business area: Finance & Business Development
Closing date: 16 May 2025
We’d all like amazing work to do, and real work-life balance. That’s waiting for you at Sainsbury’s. For a FTSE business, we move incredibly fast. When we’re not handling projects, we’re helping all corners of the wider group with what they’re trying to achieve. And around here, you can see the results of your work as soon as you walk into a store, which gives you a real sense of purpose and responsibility. Better still, the team around you will listen to your ideas and opinions, and you’ll have every chance to try something new. The sheer scale and complexity of our set-up means there’s always something else around the corner, and we’ll help and support you every step of the way. We’re trusted to get on with it. So get ready to make things happen here.
Why join us
At Sainsbury's, our procurement teams play a vital role in driving efficiency, building strong supplier relationships, and transforming the way we do business. Joining us as a Procurement Buyer means being part of a dynamic and cost-conscious culture, where you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and execution of commercial sourcing strategies that deliver value for money to Sainsbury's Group. With a focus on optimising our supply chain and supporting our sustainability agenda, you will lead multiple commercial tenders and negotiations, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams. As part of our organisation, you will have the opportunity to make a real impact and be at the forefront of change, while enjoying competitive benefits, career development opportunities, and a work-life balance that allows you to thrive both personally and professionally.
What you'll do
- You will support the development and execution of commercial sourcing strategies to optimise the supply base and deliver value for the business.
- You will collaborate with stakeholders across the business to source services that align with the Next Level strategy.
- In this role, you will lead multiple commercial tenders and negotiations, ensuring sourcing activities adhere to Sainsbury's Procurement Policy.
- Additionally, you will contribute to developing complex commercial strategies, conduct supplier appraisal and selection, and provide analytical support across category areas.
Who you are
You are an experienced professional in procurement or relevant commercial experience, with leadership in sourcing activities within Marketing or Professional Services categories. You possess a strong understanding of procurement principles and techniques, including strategic sourcing, with experience managing suppliers and stakeholders in a commercial environment. You have excellent communication skills and can work effectively as part of a cross-functional team, influencing others and driving business change. You have experience managing end-to-end commercial tenders and leading negotiations, capable of developing and executing sourcing strategies that deliver value for money. Your attention to detail, basic legal knowledge, and adherence to procurement policies ensure all activities meet Sainsbury's standards. You have experience negotiating with third parties and possess knowledge of contract law. You are resilient and adaptable, supporting Sainsbury's in dynamic, fast-paced environments during times of change.
We are committed to being a truly inclusive retailer, welcoming colleagues of all backgrounds. We support development, celebrate extra efforts, and offer flexible working where possible. Joining us, you'll enjoy a range of benefits including colleague discounts, pension schemes, life cover, performance bonuses, holiday allowances, and other financial and wellbeing benefits.
Buyer - Procurement employer: Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer - Procurement
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sainsbury's procurement policies and practices. Understanding their approach to sourcing and supplier management will help you demonstrate your alignment with their values during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in the procurement department. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of your past experiences in leading commercial tenders and negotiations. Being able to discuss these in detail will showcase your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends and challenges in procurement, especially related to sustainability. Showing that you are informed about current issues can set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and forward-thinking.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer - Procurement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant procurement experience and skills. Focus on your achievements in sourcing, supplier management, and negotiations, as these are key for the Buyer role at Sainsbury's.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Sainsbury's procurement principles and how your experience aligns with their needs. Mention specific examples of successful tenders or negotiations you've led.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your communication and analytical skills, as well as your ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams. These are crucial for the role and will help you stand out.
Showcase Adaptability: Demonstrate your resilience and adaptability in fast-paced environments. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated change in previous roles, which is important for Sainsbury's dynamic culture.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd
✨Understand Procurement Principles
Make sure you have a solid grasp of procurement principles and techniques. Be prepared to discuss your experience with strategic sourcing and how you've managed suppliers in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Highlight your experience in leading commercial tenders and negotiations. Be ready to provide examples of successful negotiations you've conducted and the value they brought to your previous employers.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Sainsbury's values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked collaboratively with different departments. Share specific instances where your collaboration led to successful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Think of examples from your past experiences where you had to navigate challenges in a fast-paced environment.
