Assistant FMCG Buyer

Glu Recruit; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading value retailer is looking for an Assistant FMCG Buyer in Barnsley. The successful candidate will engage in cost price negotiations, product sourcing, and account management to drive sales efficiency. Required skills include strong negotiation, analytical abilities, and proficiency in Excel, with a background in FMCG or impulse food buying. The role offers benefits like free onsite parking and social events, fostering both personal and professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Free Onsite Parking

Regular Social Events

20 days holiday + bank holidays

Qualifications

• Prior experience in an FMCG role is essential.
• Experience in impulse food and drink buying essential.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intense cost price negotiations with suppliers.
• Identify and source high-value clearance products.
• Take ownership of smaller supplier accounts.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor activity.
• Collaborate with merchandising and supply chain teams.
• Monitor sales performance and evaluate product profitability.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with suppliers.
• Assist with the preparation of purchase orders.

Skills

Strong negotiation skills

Analytical abilities

Excellent communication

Relationship-building skills

Proficient in Microsoft Excel

Job description

Role : Assistant FMCG Buyer

Salary : £32,000 – £35,000 Per Annum

Location : Barnsley

Hours : 08 : 30 – 17 : 00

Working Pattern : Monday – Friday

Benefits :

• Free Onsite Parking
• Regular Social Events
• 20 days holiday + bank holidays

Our client are one of the UK’s fastest growing value retailers As an Assistant Buyer / Buyer Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the buying team to drive sales and profitability. This position is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for sourcing products, negotiating costs, and delivering exceptional value to the business.

You will be part of a thriving buying team in an multi-channel business as we embark on our next stage of growth and to also adapt to an challenging market.

Duties :

• Cost Price Negotiations : Conduct intense and strategic cost price negotiations with suppliers to secure the best possible deals while maintaining product quality.
• Product Sourcing : Identify and source high-value clearance products from UK and European traders, wholesalers, and other suppliers to meet business requirements.
• Account Management : Take ownership of smaller supplier accounts, fostering strong relationships and driving sales through proactive engagement and management.
• Market Awareness : Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activity / pricing, and market dynamics to identify opportunities for new product lines and value-driven sourcing strategies.
• Stock Management : Collaborate with the merchandising and supply chain teams to ensure timely stock delivery, appropriate inventory levels, and alignment with business needs.
• Data Analysis : Monitor sales performance, evaluate the profitability of products, and use insights to inform future buying decisions.
• Supplier Relationships : Develop and maintain effective relationships with suppliers, ensuring that they meet the company’s standards for quality, delivery, and pricing.
• Administrative Support : Assist with the preparation of purchase orders, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with procurement processes.

Successful candidate :

• Prior experience in a FMCG role is essential.
• Experience in impulse food and drink buying essential.
• Strong negotiation skills with a proven ability to drive cost efficiencies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Commercial awareness with a good understanding of trading environments in the UK.
• Proactive and self‑motivated with the ability to take initiative.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Knowledge of purchasing or retail systems is desirable.
• Familiarity with sourcing clearance products or working with UK and European suppliers is advantageous.