Category Buyer

Category Buyer | Maidstone, Kent (on-site) | -35,000 - -40,000 + bonus
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My client, a leading manufacturer, is seeking a proactive and commercially minded Category Buyer to join their Procurement team.
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Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will take ownership of key spend categories, ensuring products and materials are sourced cost-effectively, delivered on time, and managed through strong supplier relationships.
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Role and Responsibilities

• Take ownership of designated product categories, managing supplier performance and commercial outcomes
• Raise and manage purchase orders, including direct and drop shipments
• Negotiate delivery schedules and supplier lead times to ensure stock availability
• Monitor inventory levels and support demand planning activities
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships through regular reviews and meetings
• Produce supplier scorecards and performance reports
• Support the development and improvement of procurement systems, processes, and reporting tools
• Identify cost-saving and value improvement opportunities across assigned categories

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Essential Skills

• Previous procurement, purchasing, or category buying experience within a manufacturing, engineering, or construction environment
• Strong supplier management and negotiation skills
• Good understanding of inventory management, demand planning, and forecasting principles
• Experience using ERP or procurement systems
• Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail
• CIPS qualification or studying towards CIPS advantageous but not essential

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Package

• -35,000 - -40,000 per annum
• Company bonus scheme
• Car allowance

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