Location: Remote with monthly travel to local office
Salary/package: £29,000
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full time
We’re looking for a commercially driven, detail-focused Category Buyer to join the growing KCS Education team, part of Commercial Services Group (CSG). In this key role, you’ll manage product ranges and supplier relationships to ensure schools across the UK get access to high-quality, cost-effective educational resources. If you enjoy negotiation, working with suppliers, and shaping product strategy — this role is for you.
Who we are
KCS is the leading supplier of education resources in the South East and is rapidly expanding across the UK. With over £25M in annual turnover, we support schools with everything from stationery to specialist equipment, all backed by outstanding customer service and procurement expertise.
Commercial Services Group (CSG) is the UK’s largest local authority-owned trading company, with 1,800+ employees and operations in over 86 countries. With 33 trading businesses, CSG offers innovative services in education, energy, HR, legal, and procurement, delivering real value to public and private sector customers.
Why this role matters
As a Category Buyer, you’ll be central to our mission of providing schools with the best products at the best value. You’ll be responsible for sourcing new items, managing supplier performance, negotiating commercial terms, and maintaining a market-leading range. Your contribution will help drive growth, improve margins, and ensure customer satisfaction in the education sector.

What you’ll be doing

• Managing supplier relationships and commercial agreements to maximise value
• Sourcing and reviewing products to ensure a competitive and customer-led range
• Leading cost negotiations and agreeing terms including pricing, rebates, and marketing contributions
• Using data and market trends to inform range development and pricing strategy
• Onboarding new products and maintaining accurate product and supplier data
• Supporting marketing and sales teams with promotional campaigns and product knowledge
• Monitoring supplier performance through KPIs including availability, revenue, and compliance
• Collaborating with internal teams including inventory, procurement, finance, and customer services

What we’re looking for

• Previous experience in a buying, sourcing, or procurement role
• Strong negotiation skills and commercial awareness
• Excellent organisation and attention to detail
• Confidence working with suppliers and internal teams across functions
• Ability to manage multiple projects and product lifecycles simultaneously
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
• Knowledge of the education market or public sector frameworks (desirable)

What you’ll get in return

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• An additional day off for your birthday
• Access to retail and gym membership discount schemes
• Life assurance and health cash plan
• A collaborative, growth-oriented work culture
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

Why CSG?
With over £800 million in annual revenue and consistent growth of 25% year-on-year, CSG is a purpose-driven business delivering commercial services with social value. To date, we’ve returned over £77 million to the public sector. When you join CSG, you’re part of something bigger driving impact while building a meaningful career.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We’re committed to creating an inclusive, accessible workplace where everyone is supported to succeed. If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know — we’re here to help

• Managing supplier relationships and commercial agreements to maximise value
• Sourcing and reviewing products to ensure a competitive and customer-led range
• Leading cost negotiations and agreeing terms including pricing, rebates, and marketing contributions
• Using data and market trends to inform range development and pricing strategy
• Onboarding new products and maintaining accurate product and supplier data
• Supporting marketing and sales teams with promotional campaigns and product knowledge
• Monitoring supplier performance through KPIs including availability, revenue, and compliance
• Collaborating with internal teams including inventory, procurement, finance, and customer service