Category Buyer

The University has built a strong procurement capability and is currently implementing a number of strategic category management initiatives. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Category Buyer to assist in further developing these initiatives.

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Finance Division supports the academic, research and administrative community at the University providing sound financial advice and timely information with a range of support services including financial operations, financial reporting, financial support and professional services.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

•               An excellent contributory pension scheme

•               38 days annual leave

•               A comprehensive range of childcare services

•               Family leave schemes

•               Cycle loan scheme

•               Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

•               Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

•               A welcoming and diverse community

About the Role

Your role will be to provide purchasing support and commercial expertise to all the University’s internal customers and, by leveraging competitive advantage with our suppliers, ensure the University achieves best value for money.

Reporting to a Purchasing Manager you will be responsible for liaising with departments within the University to identify business requirements, tendering those business requirements, negotiating and finally contracting with the selected suppliers. You will also lead in managing categories of spend and developing relationships with suppliers. This may include project managing the implementation of multi-million pound category management projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who already has some buying experience to join an ambitious team, with an opportunity to rotate between different spend categories.

We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

You will be based in Hythe Bridge Street but you may be able to agree a pattern of regular remote working with your line manager.

About You

We need a Category Buyer with a customer focused approach along with excellent analytical, influencing, communication and project management skills to drive best value for money approaches. The confidence to interact with people at all levels and build constructive working relationships, coupled with a determination to influence change, is essential.

You will be either a full member of CIPS or prepared to study for the qualification.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Tuesday 19th March