Senior Buyer

A leading FMCG manufacturer with multiple UK sites, is seeking a high-performing Senior Buyer to take end-to-end ownership of their Indirects and operational goods category spend.

In this pivotal role, the Senior Buyer will define and execute the sourcing strategy across operational goods and services, lead high-value contract negotiations, and drive continuous profit improvement initiatives.

You will act as a key commercial partner across site operations, technical teams, and executive leadership to secure long-term supply stability, robust service level agreements, and maximum value.

Key Responsibilities of the Senior Buyer include:

• Sourcing Strategy & Supply Security: Define and implement robust procurement sourcing strategies to guarantee full availability of target operational goods and services at highly competitive input costs.
• End-to-End Tendering & Negotiations: Lead complex tender processes from market mapping to award, negotiating contract terms and SLAs that deliver commercial value and long-term business stability.
• Profit Improvement Plan (PIP): Continuously develop and deliver the operational procurement PIP, driving cost-reduction initiatives and sustainable value creation across operational categories.
• Financial Oversight & Forecasting: Manage category budgets, produce accurate monthly forecasts, analyse cost variances, and implement corrective actions to hit financial targets.
• Executive & Senior Stakeholder Engagement: Prepare and present compelling contract award recommendations to senior leadership, serving as a trusted advisor across the business.
• Supplier Performance & Cost Recovery: Partner with site operational and technical teams to manage supplier relationships, resolve service and quality issues, and proactively recover non-conformance costs.

What We Are Looking For

• Industry Experience: Proven procurement experience gained within a UK food / FMCG manufacturing or fast-moving supply chain environment.
• Commercial & P&L Acumen: Strong understanding of P&L management, budget tracking, financial modelling, and risk mitigation to drive bottom-line results.
• Negotiation & Influence: Demonstrated success in negotiating complex contract terms with suppliers, using structured influence to gain internal stakeholder buy-in.
• Self-Starter Mentality: High autonomy and drive; a proactive professional who takes ownership of outcomes and thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Stakeholder Focus: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with a strong appreciation for internal customers across site operations, technical, and executive teams.
• Analytical Precision: Proficient in data analysis, IT tools, and financial evaluation to drive evidence-based commercial decisions.