Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team and manage supplier relationships in food manufacturing.
- Company: Join a major player in the food manufacturing industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, car allowance, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Take ownership of your category and influence key business decisions.
- Qualifications: Experience in food manufacturing or FMCG buying is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor and develop a team while driving strategy.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
This is a Senior Buyer role in a major food manufacturing business. You’ll report into the Head of Commercial, take full ownership of a category, and manage two direct reports – a Buyer and a Graduate.
This isn’t just about chasing down better prices. It’s about driving strategy, building long-term supplier partnerships, and influencing decision-making across commercial, technical, finance, and supply chain.
What you’ll be doing:
- Creating and delivering commercial strategy across your product category
- Managing and developing your team (this includes mentoring, not micromanaging)
- Building supplier relationships that deliver more than just price
- Managing contracts, negotiating terms, and keeping working capital in check
- Providing market insight, risk mitigation, and cost-saving initiatives that actually stick
- Acting as a key point of contact between procurement and the wider business
- Getting involved in cross-functional projects that go beyond the buying desk
You’ll need:
- A background in food manufacturing or FMCG buying – ideally customer-facing
- Strong commercial acumen – you get the balance between cost, quality, and continuity
- Leadership qualities – whether you’re currently managing people or ready to start
- CIPS or working towards it? Great. But practical experience wins every time
If this strikes a chord with you and your CV is ready, then click apply now. If your CV isn’t ready and you want to learn more then ring me (Olly) on 01733 391515.
Senior Buyer employer: The Sterling Choice
Contact Detail:
The Sterling Choice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the food manufacturing and FMCG sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in food procurement and supply chain management. Being knowledgeable about current market conditions and innovations will help you stand out during discussions and demonstrate your commitment to driving strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams. Think of specific examples where you've successfully mentored others or led projects, as this role requires strong leadership qualities.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's values and mission. Understanding their approach to supplier relationships and commercial strategy will allow you to tailor your conversations and show how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in food manufacturing or FMCG buying. Emphasise your achievements in sourcing, negotiating, and managing suppliers, as well as any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your commercial acumen and leadership qualities. Discuss how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Senior Buyer role and express your enthusiasm for driving strategy and building supplier relationships.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in contract management, risk mitigation, and cost-saving initiatives. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully influenced decision-making in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Senior Buyer position.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Sterling Choice
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
In this role, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to create and deliver commercial strategies. Prepare examples of how you've successfully driven strategy in previous positions, particularly in food manufacturing or FMCG.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since you'll be managing a team, be ready to discuss your leadership style. Share specific instances where you've mentored others or led projects, emphasising your ability to develop talent without micromanaging.
✨Emphasise Supplier Relationship Management
Building long-term supplier partnerships is key. Prepare to talk about how you've successfully managed supplier relationships in the past, focusing on how you’ve gone beyond just negotiating prices to create value.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
This role requires a strong understanding of balancing cost, quality, and continuity. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these factors in your previous roles, providing concrete examples of your decision-making process.
