Category Buyer

Category Buyer
Location: Warrington
Salary: Competitive + Fantastic Benefits

Are you ready to make an impact in procurement? Join a leading force in procurement and supply chain management and help shape the future across essential sectors such as healthcare, housing, and education.

The Role:
Our client is seeking a Category Buyer to join their dynamic team. In this role, you will support the Senior Buyer and Category Manager in managing key business areas to drive spend under management and deliver best-in-class procurement services. You will play a crucial role in ensuring compliant procurement processes, managing supplier and member contracts, and analysing financial and statistical data to support decision-making.
You will be responsible for developing and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and customers, ensuring the successful implementation and management of contracts, and focusing on both commercial and customer benefits within your category.

Key Responsibilities:
* Lead tendering and procurement processes in line with departmental and category objectives, ensuring compliance with EU Procurement regulations.
* Develop a deep understanding of customer requirements and offer strategic advice to support their goals.
* Identify key opportunities and risks, contributing to the development of category strategies to enhance spend management.
* Manage mini-competitions, price list reviews, call-off contract terms, and framework management.
* Implement and manage individual Framework Strategies, contributing to financial performance and growth.
* Stay ahead of market trends by conducting competitive analysis and researching innovations within the category.
* Build and maintain effective supplier relationships, leading review meetings and addressing disputes as needed.
* Engage with clients regularly through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and email to maintain strong communication and service delivery.
* Ensure the commercial and operational performance of each contract, focusing on customer retention, spend growth, and revenue generation.
* Support the creation and execution of marketing, communication, and sales strategies to promote category growth.
* Conduct data auditing and analysis to measure contract performance and support decision-making.
* Prepare reports for internal use, as well as for members and suppliers, to track progress against financial targets.

Key Skills and Experience:
* Education: Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience preferred.
* Experience: Proven experience in procurement and contract management, ideally within a procurement consortium environment.
* Skills: Strong communication and organisational abilities, with excellent time management skills.
* Expertise: Knowledge of EU Procurement regulations and experience in multiple procurement activities.
* Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong supplier and customer relationships.
* Sector Focus: Relevant commercial experience in the public or private sector.
* Additional: A full driving license is desirable.
If you're an ambitious and driven procurement professional looking for an exciting challenge in a supportive, innovative environment, we want to hear from you!

Apply Now and Take the Next Step in Your Career!