Buying Manager

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a dynamic Buying Manager to join a leading wholesaler of health and wellness products in Southampton. With an annual salary of up to £55,000 plus bonus, this permanent, full-time role is crucial for driving continued growth and success.

As the Buying Manager, you will lead a team of six taking charge of all buying functions within a fast-paced FMCG environment. This role is integral in shaping product strategy and maintaining competitive edge in the market.

Key Responsibilities of the Buying Manager:

1. Team Leadership & Development: Inspire, support, and guide your team to reach their objectives while providing ongoing coaching and performance management to foster high performance.
2. Buying Strategy & Execution: Oversee daily buying operations, ensuring optimal stock levels, category balance, and alignment with promotions.
3. Process Improvement & Efficiency: Review and enhance buying processes for scalability and data accuracy, while driving consistency in procurement practices.
4. Supplier & Category Management: Cultivate strong relationships with suppliers to secure access to the latest products and best prices, negotiate commercial terms, and identify new brands.
5. Data Analysis & Reporting: Utilise internal data and market insights to monitor buying performance and category trends.

Person Specification of the Buying Manager:

1. Proven experience in buying or procurement within the FMCG industry.
2. Demonstrated experience managing or mentoring a team in a commercial environment.
3. Strong negotiation skills with a history of achieving cost savings and commercial gains.
4. An analytical mindset with comfort in working with sales, margin, and performance data collected from multiple sources.
5. Highly organised, capable of managing multiple priorities and categories effectively.
6. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are a must.

Salary:

Up to £55,000

Hybrid working with x2 days on site.

This role will be well suited to you if you have held a role within purchasing or procurement as a buyer, sourcing specialist, commodity manager, category manager, senior buyer, purchasing manager or commodity specialist.