At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape sourcing strategies and build strong supplier relationships in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Mizkan Euro, blending Japanese heritage with a modern, people-led culture.
- Benefits: Collaborative team, supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on involvement in a fast-paced FMCG setting.
- Why this job: Take ownership of categories and make impactful decisions that reach consumers across the UK.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in procurement, CIPS Level 4, and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
What does it feel like to really own a category? Not just manage suppliers. Not just place orders. But shape sourcing strategy, influence stakeholders, protect supply and see your decisions land on shelves and plates across the UK. At Mizkan Euro, that’s exactly what this role is about. We’re looking for a Category Buyer (Raw Materials) who wants accountability, visibility and the space to think strategically while still being hands‑on.
Why this role exists
Our procurement team plays a critical role in protecting the business, from cost volatility, supply risk and quality challenges, while enabling growth across our brands. You’ll take ownership of 3-4 raw material categories, developing short and long‑term sourcing strategies, building trusted supplier relationships, and working closely with Technical, NPD, Operations and Finance to keep the business moving. This is a true buying role, not supply chain, not retail purchasing.
What you’ll be doing?
- Develop and execute robust category sourcing strategies
- Own budgets, forecasts, and cost drivers across your categories
- Build strong, transparent relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Manage risk and continuity of supply in a complex FMCG environment
- Lead should‑cost modelling, specification analysis, and value engineering
- Influence decisions at all levels and take ownership end‑to‑end
- Roughly 50% strategic, 50% hands‑on, with the freedom to take initiative and shape how things are done
Who we’re looking for
You’ll likely be someone who:
- Has 3–5 years’ procurement / buying experience within FMCG food manufacturing (chemicals/pharma also considered)
- Holds (or is completing) CIPS Level 4
- Has real buying fundamentals, sourcing, negotiation, supplier management
- Brings confidence, curiosity, and strong stakeholder presence
- Enjoys owning problems, not waiting to be told what to do
- Experience with ingredients, colours, flavours, fruit or vegetables is a bonus, but not essential
What matters most is how you think, influence, and take ownership.
Why Mizkan?
Mizkan blends Japanese heritage with a modern, open, and people‑led culture. In Procurement, you’ll find:
- A collaborative, transparent team that values ideas
- The space to influence and be listened to
- A supportive environment where you can grow without ego
We work hard, support each other, meet often and enjoy doing it together.
Category Buyer - Raw Materials in Manchester employer: Mizkan Euro
At Mizkan Euro, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and transparent work culture. As a Category Buyer for Raw Materials, you'll enjoy the autonomy to shape sourcing strategies while working in a supportive environment that values your ideas and encourages professional growth. With a blend of Japanese heritage and modern practices, our team is dedicated to ensuring you have the resources and space to thrive in your role, making a meaningful impact across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buyer - Raw Materials in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Category Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Prepare examples of how you've developed sourcing strategies or managed supplier relationships. We want to see your hands-on experience and strategic thinking in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Mizkan Euro thoroughly! Understand our values, products, and the FMCG landscape. This will help you tailor your conversations and show us you're genuinely interested in being part of our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our collaborative and supportive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buyer - Raw Materials in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Strategic Thinking:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your ability to develop and execute sourcing strategies. We want to see how you can think strategically while being hands-on, so share examples of how you've influenced decisions in your previous roles.
Build Relationships:Emphasise your experience in building strong relationships with suppliers and stakeholders. We value collaboration, so let us know how you've managed these connections and the impact they've had on your work.
Be Clear About Your Experience:Make sure to detail your procurement or buying experience, especially within FMCG food manufacturing. We’re looking for someone with solid buying fundamentals, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills in sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows your initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mizkan Euro
✨Know Your Categories Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the raw materials you'll be handling. Understand market trends, pricing fluctuations, and key suppliers. This knowledge will not only impress but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss how you would develop and execute sourcing strategies. Think about past experiences where you've influenced decisions or managed risks. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your strategic mindset.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, think of ways to demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Share instances where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in a procurement context.
✨Be Hands-On and Proactive
Mizkan values initiative, so come prepared with ideas on how you can take ownership of your categories. Discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past and how you plan to approach problem-solving in this role.
