At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement processes and manage commercial data in a dynamic environment.
- Company: AWE, a leader in nuclear science and technology with a vital purpose.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 9-day working fortnight, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and support for CIPS membership available.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and make a real impact on national safety.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong computer skills, especially in MS Office.
The predicted salary is between 30090 - 30090 £ per year.
AWE is an organisation with a unique and vital purpose: protecting the UK through world-class nuclear science and technology. By joining our team as an Assistant Category Specialist, you'll help provide support to the commercial function across processes, systems, supplier management, governance and reporting.
Location: Reading, with free onsite parking.
Package: From 30,090 (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience).
Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.
As the Assistant Category Specialist, you will support the category management team in a varied role that will certainly keep you engaged. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Supporting and contributing to procurement and contract management processes and analysis.
- Supporting and contributing to reviews of processes and systems.
- Managing and maintaining commercial data (e.g. electronic purchasing system, contractual/supplier records) and/or document libraries.
- Supporting supplier on-boarding and record management.
- Ensuring Supply Chain processes, tools and systems are understood and adhered to.
- Working with key stakeholders to ensure the speedy resolution of queries.
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking an Assistant Category Specialist with previous experience as a Buyer, working within a procurement function, ideally in a category-led team. Candidates should have an understanding of category management and procurement processes, with exposure to indirect spend areas such as IT or professional services, would be beneficial.
You will need to have strong computer skills, specifically using MS Office and data analysis so you should be comfortable using spreadsheets. Whilst not to be considered a tick list, we'd like you to have experience in some of the following:
- Proficiency in use of Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- User of electronic purchasing systems (e.g. Oracle and information management tools).
- Able to adapt method of communicating to a range of stakeholders.
- Preference for working in a highly regulated, compliance-driven environment.
- Proactive approach, tackles issues before they become problems.
We are able to support candidates working towards CIPS membership or looking to start their training, as part of your ongoing development plan.
We ask a lot and set the bar high because our work truly matters. In return we offer balance, with award winning benefits including:
- 9-day working fortnight - meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
- Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
- Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
- Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
- Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
- Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
- Hybrid working is available for this role on an informal, non-contractual basis. Typically 2-3 days onsite per week.
Assistant Category Specialist - Reading in Newtown employer: What Jobs
AWE is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the UK's safety through world-class nuclear science and technology. With a supportive work culture that promotes professional growth, including funding for CIPS membership and flexible working arrangements, employees enjoy a balanced lifestyle with a 9-day working fortnight and generous benefits such as a market-leading pension scheme and family-friendly policies. Located in Reading, AWE provides a collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Category Specialist - Reading in Newtown
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like What Jobs.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Category Specialist - Reading in Newtown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to What Jobs:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to What Jobs. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like What Jobs.
How to prepare for a job interview at What Jobs
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at What Jobs!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at What Jobs. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into What Jobs's culture.
