At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement of goods and services, ensuring quality and cost efficiency.
- Company: Join VEKA, a global leader in PVCu window systems with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy healthcare cash plans, pension contributions, profit sharing, and gym discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on supply chain performance and drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Qualifications: CIPS level 4 required; strong negotiation and procurement experience essential.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community dedicated to innovation and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Talent Acquisition Partner @ VEKA UK | Passionate about connecting talent with opportunity | scross@veka.com
We’re looking for an experienced Buyer to join VEKA\’s Purchasing team and support our operations. If you\’re skilled in procurement, negotiation, and supplier management, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!
As a Buyer, you will be responsible for managing the efficient procurement of goods, materials, and services across direct and indirect categories. This role ensures that all purchases meet the company’s cost, quality, and delivery standards while supporting operational needs. By managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and collaborating with internal teams, the Buyer drives supply chain performance, optimises costs, and directly impacts the company’s operational efficiency and overall profitability.
What you’ll do
- Manage purchase orders via SAP, ensuring alignment with material planning.
- Maintain accurate material pricing and supplier records.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, negotiating prices and terms.
- Lead tendering processes and contribute to contract negotiations.
- Drive process improvements and cost‑saving initiatives.
- Resolve supplier queries and internal concerns quickly and efficiently.
- Monitor supplier performance and compile reports to improve efficiency.
What you’ll need
- Minimum CIPS level 4 (essential), level 5 (desirable)
- Strong negotiation skills with a proven history of cost savings.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently.
- Strong IT skills, with SAP experience being highly desirable.
- Proven experience in procurement across both direct and indirect categories.
- Strong negotiation skills, with a track record of achieving cost savings and value improvements.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and monitoring supplier performance.
- Proficiency in contract management, including tendering and managing RFQs/RFPs.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills to optimise procurement processes and resolve issues promptly.
- Ability to understand and interpret technical or engineering drawings (desirable).
- Experience managing procurement for capital expenditure (CapEx) projects (desirable).
- Knowledge of industry best practices in sustainability and ethical procurement.
What you’ll get
- Pension (6% employer contribution)
- Annual profit share (uncapped)
- Discounted gym membership
- Life assurance (4 x salary)
What we do
VEKA has been leading the global development of PVCu window systems for over 50 years, through design, innovation and customer focus. With factories in over 40 countries across Europe, Asia and America, VEKA is the world’s largest manufacturer of extruded PVCu products.
At VEKA, we are more than just a workplace; we are a global community of passionate individuals dedicated to excellence. We are innovators, constantly pushing boundaries to shape the future of our industry. We are collaborators, creating a culture of teamwork, accountability and mutual support. We are committed to the growth and development of our people because we believe that when our employees thrive, so does our organisation.
#WeAreVEKA – Are You?
VEKA embraces diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us in cultivating a workplace that celebrates individuality and promotes collaboration.
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Buyer employer: VEKA UK
Contact Detail:
VEKA UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Buyer role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching VEKA and its operations. Understand their procurement processes and be ready to discuss how your skills in negotiation and supplier management can drive their supply chain performance.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your achievements! When chatting with potential employers, highlight specific examples of cost savings and successful supplier relationships you've managed. Numbers speak volumes, so bring those stats to the table!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the VEKA team and being part of our global community.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, negotiation skills, and any relevant achievements that align with what we’re looking for. This shows us you’re serious about the position!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for VEKA. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage supplier relationships and drive cost savings.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your strong IT skills, especially if you have SAP experience. We want to see how you’ve used these skills in past roles to optimise procurement processes and improve efficiency.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at VEKA UK
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around direct and indirect categories. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with supplier management and negotiation tactics, as these will be key in showcasing your expertise.
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated contracts or achieved cost savings in previous roles. This will help demonstrate your strong negotiation skills and give the interviewers confidence in your abilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP
Since managing purchase orders via SAP is a big part of the role, it’s a good idea to get comfortable with the software if you haven’t already. If you have experience, be ready to share how you’ve used it to streamline procurement processes.
✨Build Rapport with Your Interviewers
Remember, this isn’t just about your qualifications; it’s also about fit. Engage with your interviewers, ask insightful questions about VEKA's culture and values, and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.