Category Buyer

A Category Buyer is sought to join a growing supply chain function in Fareham, Hampshire, contributing to the development and execution of procurement strategies, supplier management, and cost control initiatives across defined product categories.

The Category Buyer, Fareham, Hampshire, will be expected to develop your understanding in the field, learning from peers and senior supply chain leaders in procurement strategy, supplier negotiation, market analysis, and best practice purchasing processes. This may include category planning, supplier performance management, contract negotiation support, procurement data analysis, and cross-functional coordination within a structured Business Management System framework.

Responsibilities include:

Support the development and implementation of procurement strategies and category plans aligned to business objectives.

Execute daily procurement activities including raising purchase orders, managing purchasing workbench entries, and ensuring reliable material supply.

Monitor supplier delivery performance including OTIF tracking and maintain up-to-date system records.

Conduct market analysis and commodity pricing reviews to inform sourcing decisions and cost reduction strategies.

Assist with or lead supplier negotiations, maintain supplier agreements, and ensure contractual compliance.

Manage supplier relationships, review performance metrics, and drive corrective action plans where required.

Prepare and distribute supplier performance reports and maintain accurate negotiation documentation.

Collaborate with sales, marketing, operations, and finance teams to align procurement activities with business requirements.

Perform procurement data analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and develop purchasing plans based on historical data.

Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, regulatory standards, and ethical requirements, supporting supplier compliance audits where necessary.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and maintain adherence to Business Management System processes and company values.

Key skills & experience:

Experience within procurement, purchasing, or supply chain in a manufacturing or technical environment.

Understanding of category management, supplier performance management, and contract negotiation processes.

Experience raising purchase orders and working with ERP systems (e.G., E10 or equivalent).

Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret procurement data and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Confident communicator with the ability to work cross-functionally and manage supplier relationships effectively.

Highly organised, proactive, and detail-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset.

How to apply:

Apply now for the Category Buyer role in Fareham, Hampshire. Send your CV to adighton@redlinegroup.Com or call Adam on 01582878821.