Category Buyer

University of Northumbria; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Newcastle upon Tyne seeks a Procurement Specialist to support strategic buying decisions in IT/AV categories. You'll manage procurement processes, liaise with internal stakeholders, and champion Supplier Relationship Management. Ideal candidates have a keen eye for detail, excellent communication skills, and a background in procurement. The role offers a chance to contribute to the university's digital transformation. Apply by January 18, 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience coordinating procurement processes and providing purchasing support.
• Excellent communication skills to assist non-finance colleagues.
• Ability to handle complex supplier documents and multiple processes simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Support the IT/AV Category Manager on complex tech purchases.
• Manage procurement processes for hardware, software, and AV equipment.
• Build strong relationships with internal experts and external suppliers.
• Champion Supplier Relationship Management processes.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and data.

Skills

Attention to detail

Collaborative mindset

Proactive problem solving

Experience in IT/AV procurement

Education

Minimum of 5 GCSE's or equivalent with grade C in English and Maths

Job description

As part of our fast-paced team, you’ll be supporting strategic buying decisions, liaising with Legal, Digital Technology and Transformation Services and other stakeholders, and ensuring every purchase aligns with our financial regulations and digital ambitions.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide specialist support to the IT / AV Category Manager on complex tech purchases;
• Manage procurement processes for hardware, software, AV equipment and digital;
• Be involved with contract renewals across the IT / AV space;
• Build strong relationships across internal subject matter experts and external suppliers;
• Champion Supplier Relationship Management processes in conjunction with the Category Manager;
• Maintain accurate records and procurement data.

You will be joining the Procurement team, a key function within the University’s Finance and Strategic Planning Service. Within the Finance and Strategic Planning Service we deliver a range of services including Procurement, Financial Accounts, Financial Performance, and Shared Services. Further information about these areas is available on our Finance pages.

The Procurement team operates across the University, delivering high-quality services to a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders.

This role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the University’s strategic goals. It combines operational excellence with strategic foresight, particularly within a category that plays a pivotal role in driving the University’s digital transformation.

About You

To be successful in the role you will have:

• A sharp eye for detail and a collaborative mindset;
• Confidence working in finance systems and cross-functional teams;
• A proactive attitude and ability to juggle priorities with ease;
• Confidence in taking ownership to solve complex problems;
• Ideally an interest or experience in IT / AV procurement or technology-focused buying.

Qualifications

You will have a detailed understanding of and experience in coordinating procurement processes. You will also have a background in providing purchasing support and building relationships with suppliers.

You will be a problem solver and possess excellent communication skills with experience in supporting non finance colleagues with procurement processes and systems.

You will have the ability to read complex language on supplier documents and coordinate several processes at the same time.

You will be self motivated and have a minimum of 5 GCSE's or equivalent, with minimum grade C in English and Maths.

Job Info

• Job Identification 3728
• Job Category Management, Professional and Administrative
• Posting Date 12/19/2025, 09:56 AM
• Locations Sutherland Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 8ST, GB
• Apply Before 01/18/2026, 11:59 PM
• Job Shift Office Hours Monday to Friday
• Full Time, Part Time or Part Year Full Time