Assistant Buyer

Transition Your Sales or Account Management Skills into a Tactical Procurement Role

Are you a commercially minded professional with a background in Sales or Account Management? Are you ready to take your relationship-building and negotiation skills to the next level? Our client - a leading UK Plc with a strong reputation for growth, diversity, and sustainability - is offering a fantastic opportunity to move into a tactical, value-driven role within their Procurement team.

This is a chance to shift from selling products and services to sourcing them, playing a key part in shaping commercial strategy and driving long-term business success.

As an Assistant Buyer, you'll use your commercial acumen to manage a category of goods or services - ensuring the business gets the best value from its suppliers. Much like managing client accounts, you'll build strong internal and external relationships, identify opportunities, and negotiate win-win outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain a robust purchasing strategy with a focus on cost savings and long-term value
• Prioritise category initiatives based on business needs and commercial opportunity
• Lead and influence sourcing timelines and supplier selection processes
• Own supplier negotiations and build strong, ethical supplier partnerships
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and add strategic value
• Bring fresh ideas and challenge the status quo to deliver innovative sourcing solutions

What We're Looking For:

• A graduate-level education is ideal but not essential
• Sales or account management experience with a strong commercial track record
• Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills
• Confidence working cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners
• A results-driven mindset with a focus on value creation and long-term growth
• MCIPS qualification (or working towards it) is desirable but not essential - training can be supported

Why This Role is Perfect for Sales/Account Management Professionals:

This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced sales and/or account management professionals to leverage their existing commercial skills in a new and rewarding direction.