Senior Buyer

This role is ideal for a seasoned Senior Buyer with strong retail experience, primarily in the FMCG sector. The successful candidate will have the ability to shape and influence the strategic direction of a highly competitive retail department.

Client Details

Our client is a leading player in the FMCG industry, boasting a solid market presence across the UK. With a workforce of over 5,000 employees, they are well-established and highly successful, renowned for their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Description

- Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive buying strategy for the retail department.

- Form tactical plans with the support of the Sales and Trading teams to drive profitable sales.

- Propose annual budgets for approval across sales, margin, and margin % for categories responsible for feeding into the wider business budgeting and be accountable for delivering them.

- Work closely with the supply chain team to plan and maintain optimal stock holding, through effective demand forecasting and negotiating MOQs with suppliers.

- Carry out range reviews for assigned categories by leading NPD and presenting to the senior management team for sign-off.

- Build strong relationships with the Far East and source from the most cost-effective suppliers.

- Research domestic and international trade shows to attend and attend as and when required.

- Conduct domestic and international supplier visits and other travel plans when required.

- Build strong relationships across all levels and departments across the business.

- Utilize sales data and reporting to identify opportunities to improve sales transactions, revenue, and profit.

- Manage supplier relationships to ensure quality, delivery, and cost efficiencies.

- Lead negotiations with suppliers on pricing and contract terms.

- Monitor market trends within the FMCG sector to inform buying decisions.

- Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

- Manage and mentor a team of junior buyers.

Profile

A successful Senior Buyer should have:

• Have previous buying/sourcing experience in a FMCG, retail or wholesale environment, ideally with experience of sourcing from Europe, and the Far East
• Food buying experience desirable, but not essential as long as you have worked within FMCG
• Have a strong attention to detail
• A confident negotiator with strong communication skills both verbal and written
• Be commercially astute and able to demonstrate a 'trader' mentality.
• Effectively manage workload and availability
• Proven knowledge and network within the FMCG industry.
• Strong negotiation skills and commercial awareness.
• Experience managing a team.
• Knowledge of procurement software and tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Job Offer

• An attractive salary package.
• A vibrant and inclusive company culture.
• Opportunity to work in Leeds, one of the most vibrant cities in the UK.

We encourage qualified professionals who are excited by the opportunity to shape the strategic direction of a leading FMCG company to apply. This is your chance to make a significant impact in a rewarding Senior Buyer role.