Category Buyer jobs
Responsible for sourcing and procurement, as well as negotiating contracts and monitoring supply levels, a Category Buyer plays an important part in the success of a business. After all, getting goods at a low price and to a set schedule is essential in order to meet client demands.
The category method of supply chain management is mainly used in the retail industry, although other sectors have also adopted the strategy. This technique involves organising products into smaller groups of related goods.
For example, a Category Buyer for a chain of supermarkets may specialise in paper goods, tinned vegetables, fresh poultry or women's clothing.
By specialising in a particular category, buyers can gain a better understanding of their market and make informed decisions that benefit the company and its customers.
The job of a Category Buyer will vary from employer to employer, but the role usually involves developing and implementing strategies for procuring goods, working with providers to improve the quality of the products and finding ways to reduce costs.
The skills required
Those applying for roles as a Category Buyer will need strong analytic skills be able to demonstrate an ability to evaluate information in a systematic way.
Communication and negotiation skills are a must and you should be just as comfortable working as part of a team as you are on your own. The role of a Category Buyer can be extremely stressful, so an ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines is vital.
Other useful skills include good organisation and self-motivation. Depending on the role, being able to speak foreign languages could be beneficial. You should also be proficient with the various software packages, as well as word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Category Buyer Jobs in Bradford
Located in northern England and less than ten miles from Leeds, Bradford is a thriving city in a prime location, making it perfect for anyone seeking Category Buyer vacancies.
Because of the area's abundance of coal and iron ore, Bradford was one of the first parts of the UK to experience significant growth during the Industrial Revolution.
During this period, Bradford became known as the wool capital of the world, while an array of other products were also manufactured here. Many beautiful Victorian buildings that were built during this time are still standing today, giving a glimpse to the wealth that came into the city.
Since the 19th century, the textile industry has been in slow decline - although it still brings money into the local economy. Meanwhile, the financial, electronics, engineering and manufacturing sectors have grown to take its place.
Today, companies that are based in Bradford include Yorkshire Building Society, Pace Micro and Provident Financial, which owns Vanquis, a well-known credit card company.
Other big-name businesses that call Bradford home include Hallmark UK, Morrisons and Thomas Cook, while online retailer Freeman Grattan Holdings has been located in the city since 1934 when it was established as a mail-order company.
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Discover procurement roles with Cast UK
If you're looking to take the next step in your career with a new position as a Category Buyer, Cast UK can help.
Our team of experienced consultants have a unique understanding of the industries in which we work and this knowledge means we can accurately and quickly find the best candidate for each role, saving both applicants and employers time in the recruitment process.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Category Buyer for your business or find you a job as a Category Buyer then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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