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 Sheffield
Situated in South Yorkshire , Sheffield was a prominent player in the steel industry for hundreds of years. This began with the manufacture of cutlery in the 1500s and grew with the discovery of crucible steel in the 1740s.
Further innovations included Sheffield plating and the creation of stainless steel, an important development in the industrial revolution that led to a significant increase in the city's population. By the 19th century, the city had become pivotal in the steel industry.
Ironwork and coal mining were also big business in the region, while the outlying areas produced limestone - including the stone used to build the Palace of Westminster.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Sheffield suffered economically as the coal industry collapsed and the iron and steel industries struggled with international competition. Over the last ten years, however, the city has experienced a rebirth and it is now a fashionable destination known for its shopping and green spaces.
Today, the only remaining steelworks is Forgemasters. The city's economy has moved on and for those seeking Category Buyer vacancies in Sheffield, the major industries now include telecommunications, manufacturing and construction. Some of the top employers include BT, Land Instruments International, Barclays and Swann Morton.
Popular locations
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.
Contact us