Job Advert: Buyer
Location: Chichester- Onsite
Shift Pattern/Hours: Monday – Friday (37.75 hours per week)
Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Buyer to join our dynamic Procurement and Supply Chain team. As a key member of the function, you will take overall responsibility for a category, leading price negotiations, collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of key materials, while maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet business objectives.
Main Duties & Responsibilities:
* Manage external suppliers for packaging and dry goods.
* Develop a detailed understanding of your category, market trends, innovations, and industry best practices to support key business decisions.
* Lead strategic and tactical pricing negotiations for key materials.
* Evaluate bids and make recommendations based on commercial and technical factors.
* Conduct research to identify the best products and suppliers in terms of value, delivery schedules, and quality.
* Identify new suppliers, negotiate terms, and secure supply agreements, including discount structures and volume rebates.
* Ensure competitive pricing for materials purchased.
* Oversee the purchasing process for the category, ensuring timely delivery and meeting site requirements.
* Communicate forecasting data to suppliers and maintain accurate stock levels to meet production volumes while managing risk.
* Provide cross-functional support for new packaging requirements related to supply/commercial changes.
* Continuously improve purchasing methods and drive cost reductions.
* Develop processes, expertise, and systems to support category-led improvements.
* Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, including supplier visits and building good rapport.
* Monitor supplier performance, conduct regular reviews, and implement clear action plans.
* Manage the invoicing process, including issue resolution.
* Produce monthly, weekly, and annual cost reports, including forecasts and budgets.
* Complete forecasts, budgets, and analyze trends impacting future activities.
Knowledge & Skills Required:
* A relevant third-level qualification (e.g., CIPS).
* Proven experience in managing procurement and sourcing relationships within an FMCG environment.
* Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Strong interpersonal skills, excellent negotiation abilities, and commercially astute.
* Resilient with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.
* Strong planning and organizational skills with the ability to support multiple sites.
* Highly analytical with strong IT skills.
* Demonstrated business improvement mindset and ability to drive change.
If you are an experienced Buyer with a passion for procurement, supply chain management, and are eager to contribute to the ongoing success of a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you. Apply today!