Senior Buyer

JR United Kingdom; Birkenhead; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A major food manufacturing company is seeking a Senior Buyer to take ownership of a category while managing two direct reports. This role involves developing commercial strategies, forging supplier partnerships, and influencing multiple business areas. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in food procurement, excellent leadership skills, and a balance of cost, quality, and strategic insight.

Qualifications

• Experience in food manufacturing or FMCG buyer role.
• Proven track record in negotiating contracts and managing suppliers.
• Ability to balance cost, quality, and continuity.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop your team, focusing on mentoring.
• Drive commercial strategy across product categories.
• Lead supplier relationship management aiming for long-term partnerships.

Skills

Commercial acumen

Leadership qualities

Supplier relationships

Education

CIPS or working towards it

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Let’s be honest: you’re probably already a Buyer.

You’ve been doing the legwork – sourcing, negotiating, managing suppliers – and doing it well.

But the real question is: are you getting the recognition, the autonomy, or the career progression you’re actually ready for?

If not, this might be worth a look:

This is a Senior Buyer role in a major food manufacturing business. You’ll report into the Head of Commercial, take full ownership of a category (details on that when we speak), and manage two direct reports – a Buyer and a Graduate. It’s a step up. Not just in title, but in what you’ll be trusted to run.

This isn’t just about chasing down better prices. It’s about driving strategy, building long-term supplier partnerships, and influencing decision-making across commercial, technical, finance, and supply chain.

What you’ll be doing:

• Creating and delivering commercial strategy across your product category
• Managing and developing your team (this includes mentoring, not micromanaging)
• Building supplier relationships that deliver more than just price
• Managing contracts, negotiating terms, and keeping working capital in check
• Providing market insight, risk mitigation, and cost-saving initiatives that actually stick
• Acting as a key point of contact between procurement and the wider business
• Getting involved in cross-functional projects that go beyond the buying desk

You’ll need:

• A background in food manufacturing or FMCG buying – ideally customer-facing
• Strong commercial acumen – you get the balance between cost, quality, and continuity
• Leadership qualities – whether you’re currently managing people or ready to start
• CIPS or working towards it? Great. But practical experience wins every time

If this strikes a chord with you and your CV is ready, then click apply now. If your CV isn’t ready and you want to learn more then ring me (Olly) on 01733 391515.