FMCG Buyer & Supplier Negotiator (Fresh Ingredients)

Protea Recruitment; Newtownards; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Protea Recruitment is seeking a proactive Buyer for a site-based role in Newtownards. You will oversee procurement of fresh raw materials, build strong supplier relationships, and ensure production continuity by managing orders and supplier performance.

You will collaborate with Production, Technical, Quality and NPD teams, monitor market trends, and help drive cost efficiency while maintaining quality and traceability across all materials.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a procurement, purchasing or buying role.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
• Strong attention to detail with accurate record keeping.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Confident using Microsoft Office and business systems.
• Experience working within a regulated or manufacturing environment.
• Food manufacturing or FMCG experience.

Responsibilities

• Procure fresh raw materials to meet production requirements.
• Raise and manage purchase orders with traceability.
• Liaise with suppliers to coordinate deliveries and resolve supply issues.
• Negotiate pricing and commercial terms with suppliers.
• Monitor raw material pricing and maintain purchasing records.
• Support quality and goods-in teams by ensuring products arrive to specification.
• Work with suppliers to resolve quality concerns and manage supplier performance.
• Ensure continuity of supply through supplier management and contingency planning.
• Source new ingredients and raw materials for product development and operations.
• Support customs clearance activities for imported goods where required.
• Maintain supplier databases, purchasing information and procurement systems.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure stock rotation.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication skills

MS Office

Manufacturing environment experience

Procurement experience

ERP systems knowledge

Education

CIPS qualification

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Protea Recruitment is seeking a proactive Buyer for a site-based role in Newtownards. You will oversee procurement of fresh raw materials, build strong supplier relationships, and ensure production continuity by managing orders and supplier performance.

You will collaborate with Production, Technical, Quality and NPD teams, monitor market trends, and help drive cost efficiency while maintaining quality and traceability across all materials.