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 Somerset
Located in the west of England, Somerset shares borders with four other counties: Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Dorset and Devon. It also borders Bristol, which is its own unitary authority.
Somerset is a good option for those seeking Category Buyer roles, with settlements in the region including two cities, Bath and Wells, as well as Weston-Super-Mare, Yeovil and Bridgwater. There's also the county town, Taunton.
During the Industrial Revolution, the region's biggest port was the one at Bridgwater on the River Parrett. Bricks and roof tiles were common exports at the time, but today, the region's economy is varied, with important industries including the service sector, retail and tourism, as well as agriculture, light industry and technology.
Just some of the products manufactured in Somerset include helicopters from AgustaWestland and oxygen systems for aircraft from Normalair Garratt.
Meanwhile, Ariel Motors Ltd makes performance motor vehicles in Crewkerne and there's a BAE Systems facility in Yeovil that produces military software.
Somerset is also home to a number of large distribution centres run by companies like Argos, Gerber Juice and Toolstation. Stone quarrying is also an important part of the local economy.
Other companies based in the region or with large facilities here include Blackthorn Cider, Ilchester Cheese and YeoValley Organic.
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.
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