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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support strategic buying decisions and manage procurement processes for tech purchases.
- Company: Join a dynamic university team focused on digital transformation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and contribute to meaningful projects.
- Why this job: Be part of a team driving the university's digital ambitions and strategic goals.
- Qualifications: Detail-oriented, collaborative, and confident in finance systems and procurement processes.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As part of our fast-paced team, you’ll be supporting strategic buying decisions, liaising with Legal, Digital Technology and Transformation Services and other stakeholders, and ensuring every purchase aligns with our financial regulations and digital ambitions.
What You’ll Do:
- Provide specialist support to the IT / AV Category Manager on complex tech purchases;
- Manage procurement processes for hardware, software, AV equipment and digital;
- Be involved with contract renewals across the IT / AV space;
- Build strong relationships across internal subject matter experts and external suppliers;
- Champion Supplier Relationship Management processes in conjunction with the Category Manager;
- Maintain accurate records and procurement data.
You will be joining the Procurement team, a key function within the University’s Finance and Strategic Planning Service. The Procurement team operates across the University, delivering high-quality services to a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders. This role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the University’s strategic goals. It combines operational excellence with strategic foresight, particularly within a category that plays a pivotal role in driving the University’s digital transformation.
About You
To be successful in the role you will have:
- A sharp eye for detail and a collaborative mindset;
- Confidence working in finance systems and cross-functional teams;
- A proactive attitude and ability to juggle priorities with ease;
- Confidence in taking ownership to solve complex problems;
- Ideally an interest or experience in IT / AV procurement or technology-focused buying.
Qualifications
You will have a detailed understanding of and experience in coordinating procurement processes. You will also have a background in providing purchasing support and building relationships with suppliers. You will be a problem solver and possess excellent communication skills with experience in supporting non-finance colleagues with procurement processes and systems. You will have the ability to read complex language on supplier documents and coordinate several processes at the same time. You will be self-motivated and have a minimum of 5 GCSE's or equivalent, with minimum grade C in English and Maths.
Category Buyer in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: University of Northumbria
Contact Detail:
University of Northumbria Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees in the Procurement team or related departments. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or examples of past procurement successes. When you get that interview, having tangible evidence of your experience will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your problem-solving skills. Think of specific examples where you've tackled complex issues in procurement or finance. This will show you're the proactive candidate they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in procurement, especially in IT/AV. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex procurement challenges in the past. We love a proactive attitude, so let us know how you’ve taken ownership of issues and found solutions.
Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit: Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to work well in teams. Share experiences where you’ve built strong relationships with suppliers or internal colleagues.
Keep It Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and keep your points concise. We appreciate a sharp eye for detail, so make sure there are no typos or errors before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Northumbria
✨Know Your Procurement Processes
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of procurement processes, especially in the IT and AV sectors. Be ready to discuss how you've managed similar processes in the past and how you can apply that experience to support the Category Manager.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
This role requires strong relationships with both internal teams and external suppliers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and maintained these relationships in previous roles, highlighting your collaborative mindset.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you've faced in procurement and how you resolved them. This will show your proactive attitude and confidence in taking ownership of complex problems, which is crucial for this position.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Financial Regulations
Since the role involves ensuring purchases align with financial regulations, it’s important to understand these guidelines. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you’ve navigated compliance in past roles.
