At a Glance
- Tasks: Own and grow a tech product category using data-driven strategies.
- Company: Fast-growing IT solutions business in Central Birmingham.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, tech discounts, gym access, and structured career progression.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth to leadership roles.
- Why this job: Blend traditional buying with modern digital strategies for real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT procurement and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
Im seeking a Category buyer for a fast-growing, digitally driven IT solutions business. You will own and develop a defined technology product category through a platform-led, data-driven approach. This role blends traditional category management with modern digital buying behaviours. Youll work closely with sales, marketing and product data teams, as well as vendors and distributors, to improve category performance, visibility and profitability.
Duties Of The Category Buyer
- Owning and growing a technology product category through digital channels
- Managing vendor and distributor relationships, including commercial negotiations
- Driving pricing, promotions and rebate activity to maximise margin
- Ensuring product content, pricing and availability are accurate and competitive
- Acting as the internal expert for your category, supporting sales and key customers
- Analysing buying trends and market data to identify growth opportunities
Skills Of The Category Buyer
- Experience in a category, buying or procurement role within IT or technology
- Strong understanding of the IT market and supplier landscape
- Proven negotiation and commercially focused decision-making skills
- Confident communicator with a data-led, proactive approach
- Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating commercial terms
Benefits for the Category Buyer
- Hybrid working and a modern city-centre office
- Structured progression to Strategic Account Director or Sales Leadership
- Tech discounts, electric car scheme and pension
- Life insurance, employee assistance programme, gym access and holiday trading scheme + more
Category Buyer employer: TipTopJob
Contact Detail:
TipTopJob Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the IT sector, especially those who work in buying or procurement. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in category management and vendor relationships. This will help you stand out during interviews and showcase your data-driven approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on demonstrating your negotiation skills and understanding of the IT market.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and interests. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Category Buyer. Highlight your experience in category management and any relevant IT or technology roles. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your data-driven approach and negotiation skills!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Whether it's improving category performance or successful vendor negotiations, we love to see quantifiable results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the technology product category you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key players, and market dynamics. This will not only show your passion but also demonstrate that you can hit the ground running.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Since this role involves managing vendor relationships and negotiations, brush up on your negotiation skills. Prepare examples of past negotiations you've successfully navigated, focusing on how you maximised margins or improved supplier terms.
✨Showcase Your Data-Driven Mindset
This position requires a data-led approach, so be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform buying decisions in the past. Bring specific examples of how you've analysed buying trends or market data to identify growth opportunities.
✨Communicate Confidently
As a Category Buyer, you'll need to communicate effectively with various teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your communication style and ensure you're conveying your ideas effectively.