Category Buyer – Services

About the role

We are looking for a Strategic Procurement Category Buyer to join our Group Procurement team at Dawn Meats' head office in Waterford. The role focuses on high‑risk services and critical production equipment, supporting sites in Ireland and the UK.

Key responsibilities

• Promote best procurement practices across the Group.
• Develop sourcing and risk‑mitigation strategies.
• Research, source and pre‑qualify new suppliers.
• Analyse market trends and identify fit‑for‑purpose products.
• Prepare tender documentation and evaluate responses.
• Negotiate prices and manage supplier contracts.
• Resolve disputes, claims and crisis events.
• Project‑manage categories and drive change initiatives.
• Maintain supplier relationships and report to senior management.

Required profile

• High attention to detail with ability to cleanse large data sets.
• Strong analytical mindset and problem‑solving capability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to build cross‑functional relationships and lead by example.
• Continuous‑improvement focus and strong organisational skills.
• Supply chain and project‑management knowledge.
• Relevant third‑level qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain or Business (desirable).

Required skills

• Advanced Microsoft Excel.
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office suite.