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 Worcestershire
A county in the West Midlands, Worcestershire's borders have changed numerous times throughout its past, merging with Herefordshire in the 1970s as part of the Local Government Act 1972, and then being re-established as its own entity in 1998.
In addition to Herefordshire, its neighbours include Shropshire, Staffordshire, Gloucestershire and Warwickshire.
Worcestershire comprises a number of large communities, such as Worcester, Kidderminster, Redditch, Malvern and Bromsgrove. These all offer a variety of choices when it comes to finding Category Buyer positions in the region, and many are considered satellite towns of Birmingham.
For much of its past, Worcestershire's economy has relied on the wool trade, and related industries. During the 19th century, glove making was an important business, while Kidderminster carpets gained a sound reputation that continues today. Historically, the region was also important for the production of hops and fruit like pears, cherries, plums and apples.
Today, retail, manufacturing, the service sector and technology are all important parts of the local economy, with companies based in the region including Qinetiq, which specialises in defence technology.
Of course, Worscestershire is also famous for its eponymous sauce - this has been manufactured by Lea & Perrins in Worcester since 1838, although the company is now owned by Heinz.
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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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