Web Summit

Buyer - Procurement

Job Description

Posted on: 
October 25, 2024

About us:


How did Web Summit become, in the words of Forbes, “the best tech conference on the planet”? Meaningful connections. Our tech events are unmissable because we make it easier for the right people to meet and connect. Everyone at Web Summit works towards this goal.


And we’re just getting started. 


We’re always looking to build on the impact we have already made at Web Summit. In the coming years we’ll take Web Summit to new markets, promoting global connectivity, highlighting important issues and connecting global leaders – all while making a positive impact on the environment and communities we encounter.


To build a better company, we have to better ourselves. We do that by finding the most ambitious people to work with us. 


About the team


The Procurement team works across the business to ensure we control costs as our events scale, balancing quality with a return of investment.


We also support the Live Events team as they work hand in hand to produce all the elements of our events - from stages to exhibitions through to live operations and attendee experience for Web Summit’s Global Events in Lisbon, Vancouver, Rio de Janeiro and Doha.

What you'll do

  • You will work directly with third-party suppliers, agreeing SLA’s and negotiating contracts.
  • You will be part of the procurement link between the Live Event and Finance teams coordinating and managing our production approval process.  
  • You will be responsible for the purchase of goods, materials and services to ensure that the company's operational needs are met.
  • You will negotiate contracts, improve prices and terms of business with suppliers to deliver savings.
  • You will build and maintain effective and productive relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
  • You will effectively communicate & negotiate with an attention to detail that operates at a high level using interpersonal and influencing skills to advance your goals.
  • You will use your analytical ability to problem solve and think on your feet, react rapidly to situations and identify cost-effective solutions.
  • You will purchase goods, materials, components or services in line with specified cost, quality and delivery targets.
  • You will use financial analysis with key suppliers i.e. tracking budgets, forecasts and spend data to benchmark supplier pricing in the marketplace to ensure you get the best deal possible
  • You will manage supplier performance and SLA’s
  • Skills required

  • First-hand experience working within a procurement function with a minimum of three years experience
  • Excellent interpersonal communication, relationship management and good influencing skills to be able to work across all levels within the organisation.
  • Working knowledge of best practice buying and negotiating strategies
  • Experience of financial analysis
  • Ability to summarise and present key findings in a clear and concise way 
  • Excellent communication and writing skills
  • Great attention to detail
  • Excellent commercial acumen and problem solving skills
  • Ability to multitask and operate in a fast-paced environment
  • Work across multiple teams and easily adapt to changeIdentifying efficiencies in process improvements 
  • Excellent Microsoft Excel, Word and Powerpoint skills