Full job descriptionCategory Buyer
Exeter / Stoneleigh | Hybrid Working | Permanent | Full Time
About the Opportunity
A leading international business within the agricultural and engineering supply sector is seeking an experienced Category Buyer to join its procurement team. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded purchasing professional to take ownership of product categories, develop supplier relationships, and drive value across a diverse product portfolio.
Working within a collaborative procurement function, you will help shape sourcing strategies, negotiate with suppliers across the UK and Europe, and support the continued growth of a well-established global organisation.
The Role
As a Category Buyer, you will be responsible for managing supplier performance, implementing category strategies, and identifying opportunities to improve cost efficiencies and supply chain effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
*Develop and implement category and sourcing strategies
*Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
*Lead commercial negotiations and supplier reviews
*Monitor supplier performance, quality, and service levels
*Analyse market trends and identify sourcing opportunities
*Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements
*Support inventory planning, forecasting, and product availability
*Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain
About You
To be successful in this role, you will ideally have:
*Previous experience within a purchasing, procurement, or category management role
*Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
*Excellent analytical and commercial awareness
*Ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
*Strong organisational and project management abilities
*Proficiency with Microsoft Office and procurement systems
*A proactive and solution-focused approach
Experience within manufacturing, engineering, agricultural, distribution, or supply chain environments would be advantageous.
What’s on Offer?
*Hybrid working (minimum 3 days in the office)
*Annual bonus scheme
*25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
*Company pension scheme with employer contributions
*Life assurance
*Enhanced maternity and paternity benefits*
*Employee Assistance Programme*
*Wellness and wellbeing benefits
*24/7 Virtual GP service
*Critical Illness Cover*
*Cycle to Work Scheme*
*Employee discount programme*
*Free onsite parking (subject to availability)
*Staff facilities including showers, rest areas, tea and coffee
*Available upon successful completion of the probationary period.
Additional Information
*Location: Exeter HQ or Stoneleigh
*Hours: 37.5 per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00am-5:15pm
*Hybrid Working Available
*Travel Requirement: Approximately 15-20% across the UK and Europe
*Start Date: ASAP