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 Peterborough
Situated in the east of England, around 75 miles north of London, Peterborough is a cathedral city on the River Nene. As a centre of new business, the region has seen a significant amount of growth and it's a good choice for those seeking Category Buyer roles.
For much of Peterborough's history it led a quiet existence as a market town. When the abbey was re-classified as a cathedral in 1541, Peterborough became a city and started to expand.
The start of the Industrial Revolution, as well as the arrival of the railway, further boosted Peterborough's economy and by the mid-19th century, products like ironwork, bricks and elastic webbing were manufactured here.
A corn exchange was founded in 1860 and a beet sugar factory opened in 1926 - British Sugar maintains its headquarters in nearby Woodston, although production has moved to other locations.
In 1932, Perkins Engines was established to manufacture diesel engines and a variety of other industrial machinery companies also called the area home. Today, businesses in the manufacturing sector include Baker Perkins, Indesit and Peter Brotherhood.
The financial sector is also a thriving part of the local economy, with organisations like Norwich & Peterborough Building Society, BNP Paribas, Barclays Personal Investment Management, Diligenta, BGL and Churchill Insurance all having offices in Peterborough.
What's more, Peterborough is a hub for environmental industry and innovation, with companies like Natural England and the Environment Agency being based here.
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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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