Assistant Buyer, Manchester

TN United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000

Job description

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We’re champions of the North West and we’re proud that it’s our electricity network that connects communities and helps keep the electricity flowing every minute of every day, from when you wake up to when you fall asleep and all the hours in between.

A key part of the UK’s journey to net zero carbon is the revolution of our electricity industry to enable clean, green economic growth. As the North West’s electricity network operator, it’s our responsibility to lead the way, help the region decarbonise and pave the way for the growth of renewable energy and a sustainable energy future for all.

We’re proud that in December 2024 we were named Utility of the Year by Utility Week magazine who said we punched above our weight and used innovation to solve some of the industry’s most difficult challenges. Come and be part of our team and make a difference.

Together we have the energy to transform our communities. We are switched on. We are adaptable. We take pride.

Our Commercial team has an opportunity for an Assistant Buyer in the Manchester area.

About the Opportunity

The Buying Assistant role delivers commercial improvement through negotiation on quotes and procurement administration. The role will ensure that quotes that are received represent good value for the business. The role holder will seek to improve existing quotes and add additional quotes. Achieving commercial benefits whilst not compromising on quality and safety are key to the role.

The role will be required to manage the procurement admin mailbox, supporting colleagues in the business in their interaction with procurement. Shopping cart compliance with internal governance will need to be monitored and interventions made to ensure compliance. The role will regularly liaise with colleagues in the business, as well as offering support to other colleagues in Commercial.

Principal responsibilities of the role

1. Working closely with the Category Manager to deliver commercial interventions, most commonly quote negotiations
2. Act as a point of reference within the business with regard to Procurement processes
3. Monitor and manage the Procurement admin mailbox
4. Negotiate with suppliers to deliver best value
5. Influence internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with internal governance
6. Support broader commercial activities and other categories within Commercial as required

Who we are looking for

1. Experience of working within a Commercial function of a similarly complex nature
2. Demonstrates understanding of the principles of commercial value
3. Track record of delivering strong commercial outcomes
4. Adept at working on procurement systems, with experience of SAP ECC an advantage
5. Experience of balancing priorities in a fast paced, consistently changing environment to meet tight deadlines
6. Proven numerical skills with excellent attention to detail.

What we’re offering

As a vital team member and in return for your expertise, inclusive approach and commitment, we'll provide a favourable salary and the chance to join a passionate and welcoming team. We are committed to ensuring our people are supported and are proud of our reward and benefits offer, which includes:

1. 25 days annual leave increasing with length of service
2. Bonus
3. An employee rewards portal offering discounts on several well-known brands
4. A market-leading contributory pension scheme
5. Employee assistance programme
6. Opportunity for professional development through our L&D function.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

We don't accept speculative CVs from agencies. Any received we will assert ownership of the candidate and no fee will be payable.