Senior Product / Category Buyer

An established and growing international distributor is seeking an experienced Senior Product / Category Buyer to take ownership of a diverse product portfolio and drive end-to-end supply chain performance.

This is a broad and commercially focused position, combining purchasing, supplier management, inventory planning, product introduction, compliance and quality improvement. Working closely with senior leadership, you will play a key role in ensuring product availability, optimising supplier performance and supporting the continued growth of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute purchasing and supply chain strategies for a designated product range.
• Manage inventory levels to balance customer demand, stock availability and working capital requirements.
• Forecast demand and implement effective replenishment plans across multiple product categories.
• Oversee the purchasing process from order placement through to delivery.
• Coordinate international supply chains and work closely with freight and logistics partners to ensure timely product availability.
• Lead supplier performance reviews, driving improvements in cost, quality, service and delivery.
• Negotiate commercial agreements, pricing and supply terms with global manufacturing partners.
• Support new product introduction projects, from supplier selection and product evaluation through to launch.
• Manage product lifecycle activities including range rationalisation, replacements and discontinuations.
• Ensure products meet relevant regulatory and compliance requirements for the UK market.
• Monitor product performance and quality metrics, implementing continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers.
• Collaborate with technical, sales, marketing and operations teams to support successful product launches and ongoing commercial performance.
• Analyse market trends, competitor activity and cost drivers to identify sourcing opportunities and margin improvements.

About You

• Proven experience within procurement, purchasing, supply chain or product management in a manufacturing, distribution or import/export environment.
• Strong supplier management and negotiation skills.
• Experience managing overseas suppliers and international supply chains.
• Commercially astute with the ability to analyse data and make informed decisions.
• Knowledge of product compliance, quality standards or regulatory requirements would be advantageous.
• Confident working cross-functionally with technical, operations and commercial teams.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded procurement or supply chain professional to join a successful business where they can influence product strategy, supplier performance and operational excellence while contributing directly to future growth.

Benefits

• Annual salary review
• Bonuses twice yearly
• Lunch provided
• Life Assurance

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role.