At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and purchase materials, manage inventory, and support new product development.
- Company: Join a family-owned, B Corp certified manufacturer committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, part-time hours, and a collaborative team environment.
- Other info: This is an in-office role with excellent long-term career opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on supply chain strategy in a growing, values-driven business.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 17000 - 24000 € per year.
Our client, Salt of the Earth Natural, is a family-owned, B Corp certified manufacturer producing natural deodorants from its Chandlers Ford facility. With a strong international presence and a commitment to sustainability, the business supplies products to over 35 countries and continues to invest in both its people and operations. They are now seeking a proactive and commercially minded Buyer to take ownership of raw materials, components and packaging supply across the business. This is a key role within the organisation, working closely with operations, NPD and leadership to ensure a resilient, cost-effective and sustainable supply chain.
Buyer, the role:
- Plan and purchase raw materials, components and finished goods to ensure consistent supply
- Forecast stock usage and manage inventory levels using internal systems and Excel
- Support new product development with costings and supplier input
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times and MOQs with suppliers
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
- Compare supplier pricing and drive cost efficiencies
- Ensure all supplier compliance documentation is up to date
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including sourcing backup suppliers
- Support sustainability initiatives across materials and packaging
- Research and source new materials and packaging solutions
Buyer, the person:
- Previous experience in a buying or procurement role (2-5 years preferred)
- Strong negotiation skills with a commercial mindset
- Comfortable using ERP or inventory systems and confident in Excel
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Able to manage multiple suppliers and priorities effectively
- Genuine interest in sustainability and ethical sourcing
Desirable:
- Experience within FMCG, manufacturing or cosmetics
- Knowledge of packaging materials and sustainable alternatives
- Familiarity with systems such as Unleashed, Mintsoft or similar
- Awareness of UK/EU cosmetics regulations
Buyer, the benefits:
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Part-time working (21 hours per week)
- Opportunity to influence supply chain strategy within a growing business
- Collaborative and supportive team environment
- Involvement in sustainability-led initiatives
- Long-term opportunity within an established, values-driven organisation
Please note this is an in office role and not a remote position.
Buyer in Southampton employer: Pure Human Resources Ltd
Salt of the Earth Natural is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work environment in Chandlers Ford, Hampshire. As a family-owned, B Corp certified manufacturer, employees benefit from a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, alongside opportunities for personal and professional growth within a values-driven organisation. With competitive benefits including 25 days holiday and the chance to influence supply chain strategy, this role as a Buyer is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Salt of the Earth Natural, their values, and their sustainability initiatives. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Buyer role. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to buying and procurement. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the responsibilities of the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buyer role. Highlight your previous buying or procurement experience, especially if you've worked in FMCG or manufacturing. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Negotiation Skills:Since negotiation is key for this role, don’t shy away from showcasing your strong negotiation skills in your application. Share specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated pricing or terms with suppliers in the past.
Be Detail-Oriented:Attention to detail is crucial for a Buyer. Make sure your application is free from typos and clearly structured. We appreciate candidates who can manage multiple priorities effectively, so demonstrate that in your written application.
Express Your Passion for Sustainability:As a B Corp certified company, we value sustainability. In your application, let us know about your genuine interest in ethical sourcing and any relevant initiatives you've been involved in. It’s a great way to show you’re a good fit for our values!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Human Resources Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Salt of the Earth Natural thoroughly. Understand their products, values, and commitment to sustainability. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
Since negotiation is a key part of the Buyer role, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated terms with suppliers. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this will demonstrate your commercial mindset.
✨Be Excel-lent
Brush up on your Excel skills before the interview. Familiarise yourself with functions that are commonly used in inventory management and forecasting. You might be asked about your experience with ERP systems, so be prepared to discuss how you've used them in previous roles.
✨Sustainability Matters
Given the company's focus on sustainability, come prepared with ideas or examples of how you've contributed to sustainable practices in your previous roles. This could include sourcing ethical materials or implementing cost-effective solutions that align with environmental goals.
