Buyer

The Buyer is responsible for driving cost savings across the supplier base through effective procurement strategies, commercial negotiation, and supplier relationship management. The role focuses on securing the most competitive pricing and favourable trading terms while ensuring product availability, supporting business growth, and delivering value to the organisation.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities Conduct regular product category reviews to identify cost-saving opportunities, rationalisation initiatives, and areas for range optimisation.

Responsibilities

• Manage product consolidation, rationalisation, and discontinuation projects to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Undertake market and supplier price comparisons to ensure competitiveness and best value.
• Deliver measurable cost reductions through effective supplier negotiations and strategic sourcing activities.
• Negotiate price changes, rebates, payment terms, and other commercial agreements to maximise purchasing benefits.
• Minimise the impact of stock shortages by identifying alternative supply routes, approved substitute products, and contingency sourcing solutions.
• Coordinate the sourcing, quotation, and procurement of special request and non-standard items.
• Manage and maintain accurate new product information, ensuring timely communication across the business.
• Support tender submissions by collating supplier information, pricing, and commercial data.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on supplier performance, identifying opportunities for improvement and risk mitigation.
• Analyse market conditions, supplier activity, and industry trends to identify opportunities and potential risks.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Provide ongoing support to the wider purchasing and supply chain function, contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Skills and Experience

Essential Skills

Strong negotiation and influencing skills with a proven ability to deliver commercial benefits.

Required Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly analytical with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Numerate, with the ability to analyse pricing, margins, and supplier performance data.
• Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis and reporting.
• Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to work effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach and a strong commercial focus.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.

Preferred Skills

• Previous experience in a purchasing, procurement, or buying role.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and conducting commercial negotiations.
• Knowledge of supply chain, inventory management, and procurement best practices.

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