Are you a proactive procurement professional with a passion for innovation and sustainability?
We are seeking an Assistant Buyer (Projects) to join our B-Corp accredited client. This is a pivotal role where you will bridge the gap between external suppliers and internal Marketing and R&D departments to bring exciting new food products to life.
As an Assistant Buyer, you will be at the heart of Brand Innovation and Renovation plans. You won’t just be processing orders; you’ll be challenging assumptions, leading negotiations, and ensuring the supplier portfolio aligns with our client’s high standards and project timelines.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Innovation Support: Actively supporting brand growth by managing the purchasing lifecycle for new projects.
- Supplier Management: Leading negotiations on cost breakdowns (raw materials, packaging, transport) and securing supplier capacities.
- Value Engineering: Supporting Category Buyers on tenders and value engineering projects to optimise the supply chain.
- Process Excellence: Managing the supplier database via SAP/Excel, tracking project status, and ensuring all legal documents (contracts, exclusivity clauses) are secured.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Acting as a key point of contact between central sourcing, local marketing, and supply chain teams.
Assistant Buyer. Required experience & Skills:
- Industry Background: Proven experience within an FMCG purchasing department (min 2+ years - food / consumer gods, packaging, retail etc)
- Negotiation Power: Demonstrated negotiation experience (e.g., GAP or similar).
- Technical Proficiency: Strong Excel skills and familiarity with SAP (desirable)
- Project Mindset: Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage multiple project trackers and timelines simultaneously.
- Education: CIPS courses or a Prince2 Project Management qualification are highly desirable.
Unfortunately, my client is unable to offer sponsorship for work visas. Successful candidates are required to hold full and indefinite rights to live and work in the UK.