Careers at Curious Universe
We are an equal opportunities employer with a flexible approach. Hiring the right team is of paramount importance to us so we work with all employees to ensure they can ‘Work Where they Work Best’. Our hybrid working solution allows us to cater to the different needs of our workforce whilst still providing outstanding service to our customers. Both yours and the business’s needs will be discussed at interview to reach a mutually beneficial working schedule.
We are always keen to hear from people wishing to work with us so please review our current job vacancies below.
Buyer/Procurement Manager
Recently named Business of the Year (51+ employees) at the prestigious Business Leader Awards, we are looking for a Buyer to play a pivotal role in our Procurement team. You will own and manage a list of titles to ensure they are placed at agreed target costs and to meet sales and customer delivery dates and will be an integral part of the Procurement team supporting with the flow of information and continual process improvement.
Main responsibilities
- Manage a list of new and reprint titles in each publishing month – from costing through to PO
- Negotiate costs and agree schedules for reprint requests with printers based in Far East and Europe
- Work with Sales regarding customer requirements – specifically schedules and packing requirements
- Liaise with Publishing and Hinkler regarding file dates and specifications
- Work closely with Production Control team regarding upcoming orders, schedules and dummies and pass on any other relevant information
- When necessary, ensure that dummies are ordered and checked in line with customer deadlines
- Add estimated costs and schedules to the database and ensure that all Procurement related information is populated. Chase for missing information
- Create PQs, POs, Assembly orders and other related documentation
- Support the Head of Procurement with process improvements to ensure a smooth flow of information through the team
- Maintain quality of data (e.g. clear and consistent spec details) as it flows through the team
- Work with all teams to challenge product specifications where environment and sustainability could be an issue, seek alternatives
- Be aware of compliance requirements for titles flowing through the team
- Where necessary, look to find alternative suppliers for formats and components and manage through from dummy approval to account set up
- Attend meetings as needed: supply and gather relevant information and materials in advance of meetings
- Identify and set up new procedures where they are missing and are required, and contribute ideas to improve systems
Skills & Experience
- Experienced and confident on Microsoft Excel and database systems
- Experience being part of or managing a tender processes desirable
- Experience building relationships with Far East suppliers
- Confidence and a good communicator
- Highly organised and proactive individual
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Flexible approach
- Ambitious to learn and develop within role
- Initiative, honesty and integrity
- Positive can-do attitude within a fast-changing environment
- A Team Player