Job Description

SP Electricity North West manages and invests in the power network that supplies electricity to the 2.4m homes and businesses across the North West. Our 2,400 colleagues manage the 13,000km of overhead lines, 44,000km of underground cables and thousands of electricity substations to keep power flowing and supporting green growth. We're one of six distribution network operators in the UK and are regulated by Ofgem.
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.
Now part of the Iberdrola and ScottishPower group, we're collectively building smarter, greener electricity networks that will get Britain growing by investing in a better future, quicker.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Buyer to join our team in Stockport. This role is responsible for delivering short-term sourcing events and full tenders within a specified category, ensuring timely delivery of tenders, commercial interventions, and contract renewals. You will work closely with colleagues across the business to understand specifications and evaluation criteria, while maintaining compliance with internal and external governance.
Key Responsibilities

• Work with the Category Manager to implement category strategies through tenders, negotiations, renewals, and other commercial interventions.
• Deliver tender activities that meet business requirements and comply with governance standards.
• Execute procurement strategies for products and services, considering commercial aspects, operational risk, economies of scale, innovation, and efficiency.
• Act as a point of reference for procurement processes and best practice.
• Negotiate with suppliers to achieve best value on pricing, performance issues, and contract extensions.
• Build relationships with culturally aligned suppliers.
• Influence internal stakeholders to ensure agreements meet client requirements.
• Drive innovation and supplier development.
• Support broader commercial activities and other categories as needed.

What We're Looking For

• Professional accreditation (CIPS or equivalent) preferred.
• Experience delivering tenders in a complex commercial environment.
• Strong understanding of procurement legislation.
• Proven track record of achieving strong commercial outcomes.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Full UK driving licence.

What we're offering

• Competitive salary plus annual bonus scheme.
• Car or Car allowance.
• 25 days annual leave (increasing with service).
• Private healthcare.
• Employee rewards portal with discounts on major brands.
• Market-leading contributory pension scheme.
• Employee assistance programme.
• Opportunities for professional development through our L&D function.

Our Commitment to Inclusion
We're proud to foster a workplace where everyone can thrive. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We believe that embracing our differences makes us stronger.
Should you require any additional support with your application, or any adjustments please contact our Recruitment team at or on 0845 366 0092 (option 2)
Any offer made will remain conditional until pre-employment checks are complete to a level deemed satisfactory by Electricity North West. Due to the of this role, the following pre-employment checks will be required; references from previous employers, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and a Drug & Alcohol test.
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.

Skills Required