Our client is the UK's leading provider of FMCG to petrol forecourts, convenience and retail sectors. With over 40 years' experience and 4,000 outlets nationwide our client is looking for a Junior Buyer to join the team.
What's in it for you / Benefits:
- £26k - £32k per annum (DOE)
- Monday – Friday day time hours, no evenings or weekends.
- 22 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Company pension scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Supportive working environment, with regular company social events
- Travel to the Far East when required
Role Overview:
We are seeking a motivated individual with excellent administrative and communication skills to play a crucial role in the buying function, directly impacting the company's success and profitability. Report to the Head of Buying you will interact with team members, senior management, suppliers, and customers, particularly in the Far East. Speaking Mandarin is advantageous, but not essential.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide administrative support in all aspects of the buying process, including supplier and stakeholder liaison, sample management, and quality assurance.
- Gather product information from suppliers and input it into the system.
- Utilize strong communication and relationship-building skills to support the buying team and achieve strategic goals.
- Resolve customer queries in coordination with Customer Services and suppliers, documenting the process.
- Monitor stock levels and identify purchasing needs.
- Research potential vendors and track orders for timely delivery.
- Update internal databases with order details and conduct market research to identify pricing trends.
- Evaluate offers from vendors, negotiate better prices, and prepare cost analyses.
- Maintain updated records of invoices and contracts, liaising with suppliers and warehouse staff to ensure product quality.
- Negotiate with suppliers, build long-term relationships, and identify new supply sources.
- Work as part of a team of buyers, coordinating deliveries, maintaining stock levels, and minimizing waste.
- Budget and forecast accurately.
Skills & Experience:
- Must be willing to travel to China when required
- Experience working with suppliers in the UK, Europe. Experience working with the Far East is advantageous.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
- Commercially and financially astute, with an understanding of total cost modelling and cost breakdown.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and Word skills.
- At least 2-4 years of buying experience with a major retailer.
- Full UK driver's license and own transport to attend events and exhibitions when required.
How to Apply
Please click apply or send your cv to . Or if you would like a confidential chat call Michael on . Due to anticipated response only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Good luck.
Proactive Staff is an equal opportunities Recruitment Business advertising on behalf of our client.
Skills:
buying
negotiation
procurement
supplier relationships
budgeting
forecasting
Keywords:
buying
negotiation
procurement
supplier relationships
budgeting
forecasting