Category Buyer - Indirect Spend

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Category Buyer with a focus on Indirect Spend to join their strategic procurement team in Sunderland . This role is responsible for managing a specific portfolio of indirect goods and services, including IT, marketing, HR, and facilities. You will be tasked with developing category strategies, optimizing spend, and ensuring value for money through effective supplier relationship management and negotiation. This is an excellent opportunity for a procurement professional to drive significant impact within a key area of the business, contributing to cost efficiency and service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for indirect spend areas to achieve cost, quality, and service level objectives.
• Conduct market analysis and identify key supplier capabilities and risks within assigned categories.
• Lead complex sourcing projects, including tender processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiation.
• Manage ongoing supplier relationships, monitor performance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across various departments to understand their needs and ensure procurement solutions meet business requirements.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, ethical standards, and contractual obligations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Supply Chain, Business, Finance) or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing and category management, with a strong emphasis on indirect procurement.
• Demonstrated success in negotiation, cost reduction, and supplier performance management.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and develop robust business cases.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple complex sourcing initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills to operate effectively in Sunderland .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive private healthcare and dental coverage.
• Generous pension scheme and life assurance.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and training.
• A stable and supportive work environment with clear career progression paths.