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- Tasks: Join our Sourcing Team to manage supplier relationships and drive cost-saving strategies.
- Company: The Body Shop is a pioneer in ethical beauty, committed to positive social and environmental impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 23 days holiday, 50% staff discount, and a non-contributory pension plan.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of beauty with creativity and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in sourcing or buying, strong interpersonal skills, and knowledge of the Health & Beauty industry preferred.
- Other info: Work from our stunning new Head Office in Brighton and join us on an exciting journey.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Body Shop has been here since 1976, and we’re not going anywhere. It’s an exciting time to join us as we’re under new ownership and recruiting for some fantastic opportunities in our gorgeous new Head Office in Brighton. We’re looking for fellow pioneers of ethical beauty who are keen to drive our business in the UK and around the world. If that sounds like you, we’d love you to join us as we embark on our next chapter. The Body Shop is committed to generating positive economic, social, and environmental impact. We’re fighting for what we believe in now more than ever. No holding back. Breaking the mould has always come naturally to us, and we need someone who’s not afraid to mix things up.
Your role in a nutshell: We are recruiting an experienced Buyer to work in our Sourcing Team based at our global HQ in Brighton. You will support The Body Shop's Sourcing Strategy and the delivery of business objectives through effective management of supplier relationships, driving improved supplier performance, and conducting commercial negotiations to ensure The Body Shop has the optimal cost base and the relevant supplier portfolio to fuel our future growth.
More about the role: You will be responsible for sourcing activities related to our core product portfolio and new project implementation, including:
- Defining & implementing supplier strategies for the Skincare and Bath & Body portfolios
- Commercially controlling spend within your specific remit, working creatively and in a SMART way to reduce costs while increasing efficiency
- Identifying and delivering cost-saving and value-creation opportunities through negotiations, resourcing, and tendering activities
- Managing cost forecasts, sharing & controlling assumptions for budget construction, maintaining data for financial trends & budgets, and reporting on KPIs
- Identifying and evaluating suppliers; selecting, approving, and reviewing supplier performance; leading supplier development efforts across costs, supply agility, innovation, and sustainability
- Managing sourcing negotiations and contracting, from RFQ/RFP to product delivery
- Working closely with suppliers to bring creative and innovative solutions to our teams
- Representing the company in expanding the number of incumbent and new suppliers
- Ensuring procurement and ethical protocols are documented and followed
What we look for: Previous experience in a sourcing, manufacturing, or technical buying environment with proven project implementation skills within a cross-functional organization. Experience in supplier performance evaluation, selection, and relationship management. Knowledge of sourcing processes, data management, and contract management. Excellent interpersonal skills, including strong cultural awareness and the ability to develop and maintain effective relationships. Knowledge of the Health & Beauty industry is highly desirable.
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer benefits such as a 6% non-contributory pension plan, 23 days holiday, 50% staff discount, access to product sample sales, Perks at Work with exclusive deals, and LOVE money for your wellbeing and personal development.
Category Buyer employer: The Body Shop
Contact Detail:
The Body Shop Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with The Body Shop's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to ethical beauty and sustainability will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions, showcasing that you're a perfect fit for their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Network within the beauty and sourcing industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums where you can connect with professionals who have insights into The Body Shop or similar companies. This could lead to valuable referrals or insider information about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your previous experience in supplier management and negotiations. Highlighting your successes in these areas will demonstrate your capability to drive supplier performance and cost savings, which are crucial for the Category Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on trends in the health and beauty industry, particularly around sustainability and ethical sourcing. Being knowledgeable about current market dynamics will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and show your passion for the sector during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Category Buyer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in sourcing, supplier management, and project implementation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous experience in a sourcing or buying environment. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven cost-saving initiatives.
Showcase Interpersonal Skills: The Body Shop values strong interpersonal skills. Make sure to include examples that demonstrate your ability to build and maintain effective relationships, especially in a cross-functional team setting.
Align with Company Values: The Body Shop is committed to ethical beauty and sustainability. In your application, express your passion for these values and how they align with your professional ethos. This will show that you are a good cultural fit for the company.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Body Shop
✨Research The Body Shop's Values
Before your interview, make sure you understand The Body Shop's commitment to ethical beauty and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with their history and recent initiatives, as this will show your genuine interest in the company and its mission.
✨Prepare for Supplier Relationship Questions
Given the role's focus on managing supplier relationships, be ready to discuss your previous experiences in this area. Think of specific examples where you've successfully negotiated or improved supplier performance, as these will demonstrate your capability.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Category Buyer, you'll need to manage costs and evaluate supplier performance. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data management and analysis in past roles to drive cost-saving initiatives or improve efficiency.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Awareness
With The Body Shop's global presence, it's important to show that you can work effectively across different cultures. Share examples of how you've navigated diverse environments or built relationships with international suppliers to highlight your interpersonal skills.
