At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement operations, manage supplier data, and assist in sourcing activities.
- Company: Join a dynamic finance team focused on efficient procurement processes.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop your career, and enjoy a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Perfect for detail-oriented individuals eager to grow in procurement and make an impact.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years in procurement or related fields; strong analytical and communication skills required.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds; flexible working hours may apply.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We are looking for a detail-oriented Junior Category Specialist to join our Procurement team within the Finance Department. This role will support category management activities, focusing on the administration of procurement operations, supporting sourcing activities, and assisting with managing supplier performance data to help drive informed procurement decisions. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach will be key to success in this role.
The Junior Category Specialist role will be responsible for supporting the smooth operation of procurement activities across key spend categories. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in Procurement who is eager to develop their career in a dynamic environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Procurement Operations Administration:
- Assist in the management and execution of source-to-contract activities, supporting the procurement process from initial sourcing through to contract completion.
- Provide administrative support in the drafting, review, and approval of procurement contracts, ensuring compliance with company policies.
- Help maintain and update procurement records, ensuring all documentation is accurate, organised, and accessible.
- Coordinate the procurement process with internal stakeholders to ensure timely and efficient contract execution.
- Assist in the development and maintenance of supplier performance dashboards, tracking key metrics and performance indicators.
- Collect and collate data on supplier performance, ensuring regular updates are provided to Category and Senior Category Managers.
- Support the monitoring of supplier performance and contribute to identifying areas for improvement or opportunities for greater collaboration.
- Prepare and assist in the delivery of supplier performance reviews and presentations, providing insights to support decision-making.
- Build and design supplier presentations to support Category and Senior Category Managers in meetings with suppliers, internal teams, and leadership.
- Help prepare reports and updates on category performance, including spend analysis, supplier performance, and contract status.
- Assist in the creation of clear, concise, and professional presentations to communicate procurement findings, performance, and strategic insights.
- Work closely with Category and Senior Category Managers to ensure alignment across teams and effective execution of procurement strategies.
- Provide administrative and analytical support to procurement teams in managing supplier relationships and achieving procurement goals.
- Collaborate with internal departments such as finance, operations, and legal to ensure procurement processes run smoothly and efficiently.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
- Must have a keen eye for detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Communication and data management skills which are key in supporting the procurement team and contributing to the overall success of the procurement function.
- Experience: 1-2 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or a related field. Some experience with source-to-contract processes and supplier performance management would be beneficial.
- Technical and Analytical Skills: Familiarity with procurement systems and tools (e.g., e-sourcing platforms, contract management software). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, with the ability to manage and analyse data. Basic experience in creating presentations using PowerPoint or similar tools.
- Soft Skills: Strong attention to detail with a proactive approach to problem-solving. Motivated and detail orientated. Good communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively with internal stakeholders and suppliers. Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, demonstrating strong organisational and time-management skills. A collaborative and team-oriented mindset, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment.
- Education: Degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field is desirable but not essential.
We welcome applications irrespective of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, belief or marital status.
Junior Category Specialist employer: Slaughter and May
Contact Detail:
Slaughter and May Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Category Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with procurement systems and tools that are commonly used in the industry. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment to the position during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your analytical skills, especially in Excel. Being able to manage and analyse data effectively is crucial for this role, so consider taking a short course or practising with real-world datasets to enhance your proficiency.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in procurement or related fields. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or contributed to procurement processes, as these will be valuable during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing to explain complex procurement concepts in simple terms. This will highlight your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and internal stakeholders, which is essential for the Junior Category Specialist role.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Category Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management. Emphasise any specific skills related to source-to-contract processes and supplier performance management, as these are key for the Junior Category Specialist role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your attention to detail and analytical skills. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate effectively with teams.
Highlight Technical Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and any experience with procurement systems or tools. This will show that you have the technical skills necessary for the role.
Showcase Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and organisational abilities. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles to support procurement activities or improve supplier relationships.
How to prepare for a job interview at Slaughter and May
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Junior Category Specialist, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles or projects. Highlight your experience with tools like Excel and any procurement systems you've worked with.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
This role requires a keen eye for detail, so be ready to provide examples of how you've ensured accuracy in your work. Discuss any processes you’ve implemented to maintain organised records or how you’ve managed documentation effectively in past experiences.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Collaboration is key in this position. Think of instances where you've worked with different teams or departments. Be ready to explain how you facilitated communication and cooperation among stakeholders to achieve common goals.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You'll need to create and deliver presentations, so practice explaining complex information clearly and concisely. Prepare a mock presentation on a relevant topic, focusing on how you would communicate procurement findings or supplier performance insights to various audiences.