Category Buyer – Join Dowds Group as they continue to grow and transform their supply chain
Location: Ballymena, Northern Ireland (Hybrid options available after training)
Salary: Competitive – details available upon request
Dowds Group is adding to its team. Following continued growth and investment in their supply chain function, they are now recruiting for an additional Category Buyer to join their established procurement team in Ballymena.
This is a key role for someone looking to step beyond day-to-day buying and into a more strategic procurement position. You'll support the delivery of high-profile projects across the UK and Ireland, working in a collaborative, solutions-focused team. With hybrid working, ongoing development and a strong package of benefits, it's an ideal time to consider a move.
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Why this role may be worth a conversation:
* Hybrid working – Following initial training, you’ll have the option to work from home up to 2 days per week
* Investment in people – Dowds is committed to growing internal capability and developing careers
* Strong total package – Competitive salary, discretionary bonus, enhanced pension (5–7%), 30 days’ leave, Westfield Health, and on-site gym
* Major projects – Work on high-value construction projects across the UK and Ireland
* Chance to influence – Be part of a department transforming its approach, embedding efficiencies and best practice
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At a glance – key responsibilities
* Source, negotiate, and procure goods and services for UK and Ireland-based projects
* Drive cost efficiencies and improved supplier performance through data-led decisions
* Conduct market research to keep ahead of pricing and industry trends
* Support supply chain transformation, contributing to best practice and structure
* Maintain full compliance with procurement policies and contract standards
What we’re looking for:
* Experience in procurement, buying, or purchasing — construction or related sector preferred, but all sectors considered
* Skilled in supplier management, negotiation, and transactional buying
* Ideally some exposure to strategic procurement
* Comfortable using ERP systems
* CIPS qualification (or working towards) desirable but not essential
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The benefits you’ll enjoy:
* Competitive base salary + bonus (details available on request)
* Enhanced pension contribution (5–7%)
* Hybrid working after training
* Westfield Health Plan + Life Assurance (2× salary)
* 30 days’ annual leave including bank holidays
* Family-friendly policies + free on-site gym
* Free parking
* Training and development in a growing team
Working hours:
Mon–Thurs: 8:00am–5:00pm
Fri: 8:00am–2:00pm
(Some flexibility around start/finish times)
How to apply:
Kelly Jennings & Associates have been exclusively retained by Dowds to manage this recruitment process. To discuss the opportunity in confidence, contact Kelly Jennings on 028 9558 2083. Interested candidates who are meeting the criteria can apply via the link on this advert.
(Please note: Our client is unable to provide sponsorship at this time. A full UK work permit and clean driving licence are required for this role.)
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Agency notice:
Kelly Jennings & Associates are exclusively retained to deliver this appointment. Any unsolicited introductions to Dowds Group from other agencies will be redirected to us. Neither Dowds Group nor Kelly Jennings & Associates will be liable for fees connected to such introductions.