The Role

Leinster Appointments is currently recruiting for a permanent, full time Category Buyer in Navan. This is a permanent, full time role.

Hybrid after initial training period

Salary €45,000 plus bonus 

Main duties: 

• Deliver KPIs across cost, service, quality, and sustainability within designated categories.
• Drive innovation initiatives and strategic projects across assigned categories.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop and implement a consistent, future-focused category strategy.
• Provide procurement support to sites in relation to assigned categories.
• Manage supplier relationships across transactional, managed, and strategic suppliers.
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate risks associated with key materials and supply continuity.
• Support the delivery of Group Procurement activities, including deputising for the line manager where required.
• Provide support and cover for other members of the procurement team as needed.
• Develop and implement category strategies based on supplier, market, and supply chain analysis.
• Ensure the supply base aligns with the organisation's ethical, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives across all sites while collaborating with Innovation, NPD, Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, and Sales teams.
• Lead contract renewals and tender processes using best practice negotiation techniques and procurement tools.
• Maintain accurate planning, pricing, financial, and supplier information within QAD, including category administration and invoice query resolution.
• Provide accurate and timely category information to Commercial teams as required.
• Manage inventory levels and surplus stock in line with agreed targets.
• Engage directly with customers regarding designated categories.

The Person

• Strong commercial awareness with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven supplier negotiation experience with the ability to achieve commercially favourable outcomes.
• Ability to work independently while effectively influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong working relationships.
• Demonstrated success in identifying and delivering cost-saving initiatives.
• Experience in category-led procurement, including category strategy development, supplier relationship management, and risk management.
• Willingness and ability to travel between company sites and supplier locations as required.
• CIPS qualification or currently working towards CIPS accreditation is desirable but not essential.
• Experience within the food manufacturing sector and exposure to international supply chains would be advantageous but is not essential.