Category Buyer - Development

Pod Talent; Woking; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job description

Are you a procurement professional looking for a fast-paced role with real impact? We are looking for a Category Buyer – Development to manage multiple projects in the equipment and CAPEX procurement space. This role is key to optimizing costs, improving supplier performance, and supporting development projects within a growing, multi-market organization.

The business is a leading brand in the food service industry, operating across multiple markets with a strong presence in Europe. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and expansion, we continue to grow at a rapid pace, opening new locations and enhancing our operations. As part of a global organization, we focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences while driving operational efficiency through strategic sourcing and procurement excellence.

What You’ll Do:

1. Lead and manage multiple projects across the equipment and CAPEX category to improve efficiency and return on investment. You will be involved from a procurement perspective in the entire process of new store openings, from mapping out new cities/countries, to acquiring land and being part of the entire fit out process.
2. Develop and execute procurement strategies that optimize cost, quality, and payback periods.
3. Manage key supplier relationships, ensuring strong performance and contract compliance.
4. Partner with internal teams, including the Design Centre of Excellence, to ensure procurement aligns with commercial goals.
5. Analyse supplier and contract performance to identify opportunities for improvement and cost savings.
6. Contribute to the development of the long-term category strategy, integrating internal and external market factors.
7. Support risk management initiatives by identifying potential procurement risks and developing mitigation strategies.
8. Monitor and enforce supplier compliance with quality, financial, and operational KPIs.

What We’re Looking For:

1. Experience in Procurement or Supply Chain with a strong analytical approach.
2. Ability to manage multiple stakeholders in a complex, fast-moving environment.
3. Experience in supplier management, contract negotiation, and driving cost optimization initiatives.
4. Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and innovative mindset.
5. Ability to extract meaningful insights from data analysis and translate them into strategic actions.
6. Experience in food service, FMCG, retail, or construction/ CAPEX procurement is a plus.
7. Excellent communication and collaboration skills to engage with cross-functional teams.
8. Strong proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and other analytical tools.

Why Join Us?

1. Be part of a fast-growing, dynamic business with exciting expansion plans.
2. Work in an innovative procurement function driving real business impact.
3. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a supportive company culture.
4. Competitive salary and career development opportunities within a well-established brand.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your procurement career, apply now and be part of a team that’s shaping the future of procurement excellence!