At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement projects, manage supplier relationships, and drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Company: Market-leading FMCG/Retail business with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on supply chain strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and team leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
A market leading FMCG/Retail business is seeking a Lead Buyer to join its expanding procurement function.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced purchasing professional with a strong background in supplier management, strategic sourcing and inventory planning to play a key role in supporting a rapidly growing international brand.
Poole based with good hybrid options available.
Working closely with Procurement Planning, Demand Planning, Operations and senior business stakeholders, the Lead Buyer will be responsible for developing supplier relationships, driving cost and efficiency improvements, supporting stock availability and helping to shape sourcing strategies that support continued business growth.
The role combines hands-on procurement management with the opportunity to lead projects, influence supply chain strategy and develop a high-performing team.
Specific duties of the Lead Buyer include
- Lead, support and develop a team of Procurement Planners, ensuring stock availability aligns with forecast demand.
- Manage strategic supplier relationships, conducting regular reviews and negotiating improved pricing, service levels and commercial terms.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives across the wider supply chain, including sourcing, freight, duty and logistics expenditure.
- Support the development and execution of global sourcing strategies focused on supply chain resilience, efficiency and long-term value.
- Identify and implement opportunities to reduce supply risk through supplier diversification and dual-source strategies.
- Monitor inventory levels and demand trends, working closely with Demand Planning teams to optimise stock holdings.
- Support and oversee purchasing activities, including forecast reviews, order planning and supplier order book management.
- Lead or contribute to supplier consolidation, sourcing and business improvement projects.
- Collaborate with stakeholders across Supply Chain, Compliance, Product Development, Logistics and Finance to support wider business objectives.
Lead Buyer applicants should meet following criteria
- Proven experience within a purchasing, procurement or supply chain environment.
- Strong supplier management and commercial negotiation skills.
- Experience leading supplier reviews and delivering measurable cost-saving initiatives.
- Ability to work across a broad range of direct and indirect purchasing activities.
- Strong understanding of inventory management, forecasting and supply chain principles.
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems, such as SAP, alongside strong Microsoft Office skills.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
- A proactive and solutions-focused mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.
- Previous experience managing or mentoring team members would be advantageous.
This position would suit an ambitious procurement professional looking to join a fast-paced, growth-focused organisation where they can make a tangible impact on supplier performance, supply chain resilience and overall business success.
Lead Buyer in Poole employer: Matchtech Careers
As a Business Reporting Analyst with our client, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation. The company offers excellent employee growth opportunities through continuous training and development, alongside competitive benefits that support work-life balance. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on business decisions but also provides a supportive environment where your contributions are recognised and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Buyer in Poole
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Matchtech Careers.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Buyer in Poole
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Matchtech Careers:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Matchtech Careers. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Matchtech Careers.
How to prepare for a job interview at Matchtech Careers
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Matchtech Careers!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Matchtech Careers. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Matchtech Careers's culture.
