Buyer

As a Buyer at Biffa, your key responsibilities include supporting the Category Manager with strategic procurement initiatives, managing individual waste streams from start to finish, and ensuring the procurement function is professionally represented. You'll also engage with suppliers and stakeholders, develop strategies aligned with business needs, and produce regular reports on project progress and savings.

To qualify for the Buyer position at Biffa, candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant procurement experience and be studying towards CIPS certification. A working understanding of contract law and strong skills in Microsoft applications, including Excel and PowerPoint, are essential to succeed in this role.

The Buyer plays a vital role in achieving Biffa's goals by delivering annual savings, managing procurement activities effectively, and supporting procurement transformation. By understanding key spend areas and negotiating contracts, you help improve the company's financial performance and enhance service delivery, which is crucial to Biffa's mission in waste management.

Success as a Buyer at Biffa requires strong negotiation and influencing skills, the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, and a keen analytical mind to interpret market trends. Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools improves efficiency and reporting accuracy, while a comprehensive understanding of contract law bolsters effective procurement operations.

The Buyer position at Biffa is an excellent opportunity for career growth. You'll gain valuable experience in procurement processes, develop your strategic thinking skills, and have opportunities to work on high-impact projects. Engaging with diverse stakeholders and working collaboratively opens doors to various career paths within the procurement and operations field.

Effective supplier relationship management involves open communication, setting clear expectations, and being proactive in resolving issues. Building trust through transparency and ensuring both parties benefit from the relationship can foster a long-term collaboration.

In procurement negotiations, I focus on understanding the needs of both Biffa and the supplier. Preparing thoroughly, knowing the market rates, and being flexible while aiming for win-win outcomes are key strategies I employ during negotiations.

I begin by analyzing the organization's needs and spend data to identify key areas for improvement. Collaborating with stakeholders to understand their challenges, combined with market trend analysis, helps in formulating a solid procurement strategy.

Key metrics include cost savings achieved, supplier performance ratings, compliance with contractual terms, and timely delivery of goods or services. Tracking these metrics helps in continually assessing the effectiveness of procurement strategies.

When conflicts arise, I prioritize open communication to identify the root cause. By discussing concerns candidly, I aim to find common ground and work collaboratively towards a solution that satisfies both parties.

I utilize various resources such as market reports and industry news to stay informed about market trends, helping in strategic decision-making. Recognizing patterns and potential risks enables me to anticipate changes and make informed procurement choices.

I use project management tools and create timelines for each project. Prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance helps me manage multiple responsibilities effectively. Regularly reviewing progress ensures I remain on track.

Collaboration is crucial in procurement. Engaging with stakeholders across departments allows me to understand their needs and challenges better, ensuring that the procurement process aligns with the overall business objectives and goals.

I stay updated on relevant procurement regulations and best practices through continuous education. Ensuring all procurement processes are documented and adhering to guidelines helps maintain compliance and uphold ethical standards.

I embrace a mindset of continuous improvement by regularly seeking feedback from stakeholders, analyzing procurement outcomes, and identifying areas for enhancement. Staying agile and being open to adopting innovative practices can significantly enhance procurement efficiency.