At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing activities and analyse performance data in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Zertus UK & Ireland, a leader in confectionery with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, a bonus plan, and a comprehensive healthcare cash plan.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement and make a real impact in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and a passion for learning are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Based at one of the following UK sites – Fakenham or Sherburn – with hybrid working options. This role involves managing day-to-day purchasing activities, analysing performance data, and working closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to drive value, efficiency, and continuous improvement. It’s an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their career within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Position type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 37.5
Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday, 08:30 - 16:30
Key Benefits:
- Hybrid working
- Bonus plan
- Healthcare cash plan
Responsibilities:
- Support the management of procurement categories, including day‑to‑day delivery, ownership of selected spend areas, and achievement of agreed savings and PPV targets.
- Monitor and report on KPIs (price, service, quality, sustainability), providing insights, highlighting trends, and ensuring accurate performance reporting to stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate procurement data, supplier information, pricing, and financial details (including QAD), resolving invoice queries where required.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders and sites to support reporting, provide procurement guidance, and ensure smooth information flow.
- Support supply‑chain and supplier‑management activities, including risk identification, performance monitoring, issue resolution, and inventory control.
- Contribute to strategic projects, continuous improvement, and provide cover across the wider commodity team as needed.
- Assist in the maintenance of supplier information and procurement databases to ensure data accuracy.
Essential:
- Commercial acumen and strong analytical skills.
- Passion and enthusiasm to learn.
- Ability to work independently and influence others.
- Clear communication and good interpersonal skills.
- Some travel between sites, to suppliers and other destinations as necessary.
Desirable:
- Food manufacture experience.
- Procurement experience.
- Ability to use PowerPoint, Excel and Word effectively.
- Ability to pick up systems and software‑based ways of working.
Additional Benefits:
- Annual bonus plan with earning potential of up to 10% of salary.
- Holiday entitlement 25 days + bank holidays.
- 4% employer and 5% employee pension plan.
- Life assurance plan, 4× basic salary.
- Various salary sacrifice schemes including pension payments, cycle‑to‑work and electric car (subject to meeting minimum criteria).
- Healthcare cash plan via PayCare (Dental, Optical, Chiropody, Professional Therapy, Counselling) with a value over £400 each year.
- Hybrid working.
Zertus UK & Ireland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Junior Category Buyer in Fakenham employer: Zertus UK & Ireland
Zertus UK & Ireland - Kinnerton Confectionery is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Fakenham with hybrid working options that promote work-life balance. Employees benefit from a comprehensive bonus plan, generous holiday entitlement, and a robust healthcare cash plan, all while being part of a diverse and inclusive culture that prioritises professional growth and continuous improvement within the fast-paced manufacturing sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Category Buyer in Fakenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with friends or family. Get comfortable talking about your experiences and how they relate to the role of Junior Category Buyer. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to reach out directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Category Buyer in Fakenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Junior Category Buyer role. Highlight any relevant procurement or analytical experience, and don’t forget to showcase your passion for learning!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this role at Zertus UK & Ireland and how your background aligns with their needs. Keep it concise but impactful!
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves analysing performance data, be sure to mention any specific tools or methods you’ve used in the past. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their commercial acumen and analytical prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Zertus UK & Ireland!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zertus UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Junior Category Buyer, you'll be dealing with performance data and KPIs. Brush up on your analytical skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles or projects. Show them you can spot trends and provide insights!
✨Show Your Passion for Procurement
Let your enthusiasm shine through! Talk about why you're excited about procurement and how you want to grow in this field. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your passion and willingness to learn.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to explain complex ideas simply, especially when discussing how you would collaborate with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like resolving invoice queries or managing supplier relationships. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges and be ready to share those stories.
