Assistant Buyer

Job Introduction

About us

Do you aspire to work in a welcoming, innovative, forward-thinking, inclusive and supportive organisation where you can also learn and develop?  YPO might be the perfect fit for you!

With 50 years of experience, YPO has been dedicated to supporting the public sector. Our journey began five decades ago when 13 local authorities united to streamline their purchasing needs and enhance efficiency, forming the organisation we know today.

As a 100% publicly owned entity by our 13 member authorities, we ensure that our profits are reinvested into our public sector customers, offering even greater value for money.  Discover more about our company and culture at Start a career at YPO | YPO.

YPO is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best.

If this position is advertised as a full-time role (37 hours per week), YPO is pleased to consider requests for flexible working arrangements, including part-time hours and job-sharing opportunities. We are committed to supporting work-life balance and encourage candidates to discuss their preferred working patterns with us.

About the Role

We are seeking to appoint to the role of Assistant Buyer.

As a key member of the Procurement Team, this role is integral to YPO’s HR Services function.  The successful candidate will provide support the Buyers & Category Lead’s in delivering an end-to-end category management approach.

About You

As YPO continues to expand, we are seeking a driven and enthusiastic individual to join our team. Drawing from the skills and experience section of the Job Description, we seek someone who has:

• Studying (or willingness to study) or member of Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS level 4) or have appropriate relevant experience 
• Sound tactical buying/procurement skills with potential to progress to Category Buyer level 
• Experienced in supporting tender processes or working in a procurement/supply chain environment
• Passionate about making a difference for public sector organisations

For a detailed description of the role and required skills, please refer to the job description attached below.

What’s in it for you?

We are proud to offer a fantastic range of benefits, including:

• Generous annual leave, from 24 days a year, plus 8 days statutory bank holidays and 3 discretionary closedown days at Christmas
• Local Government Pension through West Yorkshire Pension Fund 
• A comprehensive health and wellbeing package
• Flexi scheme and flexible working options available (please discuss your preferred working requirements with the manager at interview)
• Family friendly policies
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Subsidised canteen
• Free parking available
• There is also a pay award pending subject to national negotiations

To have a confidential and informal discussion about this role, or any additional support, please contact Lucy Simpson at lucy.simpson@ypo.co.uk

Interviews are scheduled to take place the week commencing 8th September 2025 in-person at our office in Wakefield.