Job description
Category 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