Senior Buyer

Location: Hybrid between Ansty Office (CV7 9JU) & Home – typically 2/3 days per week in office or other regional office depending on your location

Shape Commercial Value as a Senior Buyer

Are you an experienced procurement professional looking to make a real impact? We're looking for a Senior Buyer to manage our Operational Services category, leading strategic sourcing activities and helping deliver commercial value across the business.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a key procurement portfolio, working closely with stakeholders and suppliers to develop innovative sourcing strategies, manage commercial risks and support Cadent's business objectives.

Why you'll love this role

• Category Ownership: Take end-to-end responsibility for your portfolio, developing and delivering category strategies that support business priorities and operational requirements.
• Strategic Sourcing: Lead sourcing activities from market engagement and tendering through to contract award, ensuring best-for-task solutions for Cadent.
• Commercial Influence: Collaborate with stakeholders to understand and challenge demand, identify opportunities and deliver value-driven procurement outcomes.
• Market Insight: Analyse supply markets, supplier capabilities and emerging trends to identify future risks, opportunities and innovative solutions.
• Supplier Relationships: Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships, driving performance and long-term value through effective relationship management.
• Contract Development: Support the scoping, negotiation and implementation of contractual agreements that balance business need, commercial value and risk.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure sourcing and contract activities align with Cadent's risk profile, legal framework and procurement obligations.

What You'll Bring

• MCIPS Qualified: Or willing to work towards achieving MCIPS accreditation.
• Strategic Sourcing Experience: Proven experience leading complex, high-value sourcing activities, including supplier negotiations, cost management and commercial decision-making.
• Commercial Awareness: Strong understanding of commercial principles, contract management and procurement best practice.
• Analytical Skills: Confidence analysing and presenting data to support sourcing strategies and contract decisions.
• Supplier & Market Knowledge: Experience researching supply markets, assessing risks and identifying opportunities to strengthen category strategies.
• Process Improvement: A track record of identifying and implementing improvements that enhance service, efficiency and customer experience.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Procurement Knowledge: Understanding of UK Utilities and procurement regulations, with experience managing compliant tender processes.
• Relationship Building: Ability to develop effective working relationships internally and externally, creating collaborative and constructive partnerships.