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 Greater Manchester
One of the largest metropolitan areas in the UK, Greater Manchester is situated in the north-west and includes not only the city of Manchester, but also other settlements like Bolton, Stockport, Wigan and Salford. It is a thriving area and an ideal option for anyone seeking Category Buyer vacancies.
From as far back as the Middle Ages, the region was known for its cloth and wool trade. The Industrial Revolution brought with it a massive boost to the economy and population, as mechanised mills, cotton spinning and textile factories sprouted up across the area.
The Manchester Ship Canal was completed in 1894 and provided a way for ships to come all the way into the city, simplifying trade and giving rise to a thriving port area.
Today, the Greater Manchester area is home to a vast range of companies. Manufacturing is still an important part of the local economy, while financial services, real estate and media have also become big business.
Just some of the well-known organisations with head offices or other large facilities in Greater Manchester include the BBC, the Co-operative Group, BUPA, Barclaycard, Kellogg's, the Guardian Media Group, ITV, McVitie's, Adidas, AstraZeneca, Patak's, Warburton's and PG Tips.
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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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