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dnata

Category Buying Manager

On site

Windsor, United kingdom

Senior

Full Time

05-10-2025

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Skills

Communication Negotiation Customer Service

Job Specifications

We're En Route. We're a welcoming bunch, with a down-to-earth outlook that helps build lasting relationships with customers and colleagues alike.

As global specialists in passenger solutions, supply chain services and sourcing for airlines and airline caterers, we operate globally as part of dnata, one of the world's largest combined air services providers.

En Route's expertise is one of the many reasons why we've enjoyed more than 20 years as a global food solutions partner, with offices in the UK, USA, Australia and UAE.

Are you ready to become part of our story?

Created by En Route colleagues, our values sit at the very heart of our business.

Birthday day off
25 days off a year
Company bonus scheme
Hybrid Working (3 days in office)
Medical Insurance
Referral Scheme
Social Events
Flexi Time

Reporting to Head of Procurement, you will manage the Procurement of agreed food, non-food and/or packaging and services suppliers for UK and Europe. Taking a category management approach, you will support the Head of Procurement in developing and implementing the Procurement strategy for UK & Europe, creating a supply base fit for purpose in meeting En Route's growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

For the Categories under your control:
To work with the Head of Procurement in developing and implementing a clear supply base strategy to deliver En Route's requirements in UK & Europe, aligned with the global strategy
To manage the UK & European Supply base on a day-to-day basis ensuring all relationships, commercials and opportunities are complete and delivered
To negotiate and manage Contracts and Terms with Suppliers
To identify, implement and monitor opportunities to improve cost savings, project deliverables and supplier selection, reporting progress on a regular basis
To work collaboratively with Product Development and Supply Chain teams to support the creation of innovative product solutions and their distribution in an efficient and cost-effective manner
To manage the Supplier listing and start-up process, category reporting and category action plans
To take a proactive approach in understanding the markets in which En Route operates, identifying Procurement opportunities and risks and taking appropriate and timely action in coordination with the P&SC Director
To work closely with the Supply Chain teams to ensure terms and conditions agreed with Suppliers support the maintenance of excellent product availability, ensuring strong levels of customer service
Experienced Food & Beverage Procurement professional
Experience of Buying Packaging and non-Food categories
Good knowledge of the UK and/or European supply markets
A strong negotiator with demonstrated ability to develop and manage sustainable Supplier relationships
Comfortable with the negotiation, development and management of Supplier Contracts
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks across Food and non-Food categories
Evidence of strong collaboration with other functions
Ability to travel as needed
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Educated to Degree level preferred
MCIP's qualification or equivalent preferred

If you're interested in applying for this role, please send a copy of your most recent CV to charlotte.walters@en-route.com

Please no agencies.

About the Company

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 34 countries across six continents. Know more