At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage low-value purchasing processes and negotiate with suppliers to ensure best value.
- Company: Join the UK's fastest broadband network and a top mobile brand.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Diverse teams fostering equity and inclusion in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making impactful procurement decisions.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and ability to manage high volumes of purchasing.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We’re looking for a Category Buyer to join our Procurement team, helping us deliver best value for money while keeping things simple, sustainable, and fully compliant. In this role, you’ll manage a high volume of low‑value purchasing processes using our GEP spend management tool, negotiate with suppliers, support contract activity, and work closely with colleagues across Finance, Legal, and Procurement.
Who we are: The UK’s fastest broadband network, the nation’s best‑loved mobile brand, and one of the UK’s biggest companies. Diverse, hard‑working teams jam packed with serious talent, offering the UK more choice and better value through boundary‑pushing, customer‑championing values and ambitions.
Equal Opportunities: Virgin Media O2 is an equal opportunities employer and works hard to remove bias and barriers for all people and candidates. We build equity and inclusion into everything we do, encouraging you to be your authentic self throughout your journey with us.
Requirements:
- Good interpersonal skills and the ability to influence suppliers and internal stakeholders at all levels
- Strong negotiating skills and the ability to lead competitive sourcing processes
- Ability to manage high volumes of purchasing activity against tight SLA targets
- Strong time‑management and organisational skills
- Ability to work within cross‑functional and/or virtual teams
- IT software skills such as SaaS and perpetual software licences
Nice to Have:
- Experience using management information from ERP and Purchasing systems (ideally GEP)
- Basic contract knowledge, with the ability to finalise low‑value agreements where required
- Strong analytical and desktop research skills
- Interest in procurement and studying towards CIPS accreditation
Responsibilities:
Process low‑value purchases.
Category Buyer - IT Procurement in Reading employer: Virgin Media O2
At Virgin Media O2, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our London and Reading locations provide a vibrant environment where employees can thrive, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development, alongside a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your journey towards achieving your career aspirations in the fast-paced world of IT procurement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer - IT Procurement in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. We want to see how you align with our mission, so be ready to share your thoughts on procurement and sustainability!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Role-play scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable discussing terms and prices. This will help you shine during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer - IT Procurement in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Buyer role. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement, negotiation skills, and any IT software knowledge you have. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how your skills align with our values. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your interpersonal and organisational skills in your application. Mention specific examples where you've influenced stakeholders or managed tight deadlines. We’re all about teamwork and efficiency!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Virgin Media O2
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around low-value purchasing processes and negotiation tactics. Familiarise yourself with the GEP spend management tool, as it’s crucial for the role. Being able to discuss how you’ve successfully managed similar tasks in the past will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since this role requires strong interpersonal skills, think of examples where you've influenced suppliers or internal stakeholders. Prepare to share specific instances where your communication made a difference, as this will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
✨Demonstrate Time Management Mastery
With high volumes of purchasing activity expected, be ready to discuss how you prioritise tasks and manage tight deadlines. Share strategies you’ve used in previous roles to stay organised and efficient, which will show that you can handle the demands of the position.
✨Prepare Questions About Company Culture
Virgin Media O2 values diversity and inclusion, so prepare thoughtful questions about their culture and how they support employees. This not only shows your interest in the company but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with your interviewers!
