Senior Buyer - Fragrance in London

As a key member of the Home Buying management team, the Senior Buyer for Fragrance will be responsible for driving negotiations with suppliers, analysing market trends, and managing relationships with key vendors. They will play a vital role in the operational efficiency and financial success of the department within the company. The Senior Buyer role is crucial for managing procurement operations and maintaining cost‑effective purchasing strategies. This position involves overseeing the purchasing of goods, services, and materials required by The White Company and ensuring quality standards are met and costs are kept within budget.

The primary responsibilities of a Senior Buyer include the strategic sourcing of materials and services, managing procurement processes, and optimizing cost without compromising on quality. This involves:

• Developing and executing procurement strategies that align with company goals.
• Negotiating contracts and terms with suppliers to secure advantageous terms.
• Performing cost analyses and setting benchmarks for quality and cost.
• Ensuring timely delivery of materials and services from vendors.
• Conducting market research to stay updated on industry trends and new suppliers.
• Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Managing inventory levels to optimise stock turnover and reduce holding costs.

The tasks and duties of a Senior Buyer are varied and dynamic, requiring keen attention to detail and a proactive approach:

• Evaluating suppliers based on price, quality, and delivery speed.
• Reviewing and processing requisitions and purchase orders for supplies and equipment.
• Controlling the procurement budget and promoting a culture of long‑term savings on procurement costs.
• Overseeing the maintenance of records of goods ordered and received.
• Identifying potential suppliers, visiting existing suppliers, and building and maintaining good relationships with them.
• Preparing reports and updates as and when needed.
• Liaising with other departments, particularly the accounting and stock departments, to ensure inventory is maintained and budget adherence.

A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, supply chain management, or a related field is essential. Additional certification such as Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is highly desirable. Proven experience of 5+ years in a procurement or purchasing role, with at least 2+ years in a senior position handling complex procurement tasks. Strong knowledge of procurement and vendor management software. Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.

Overall, the role of a Senior Buyer involves significant responsibility and influence, requiring an individual who is not only skilled in procurement practices but also adept at strategy development and supplier management. It demands both tactical and strategic thinking, underpinned by thorough industry knowledge and a drive to optimise purchasing processes continually.

What we’ll offer you:

• Discount – Up to 50% discount and access to regular Sample Sales.
• Holiday – 25 days rising to 28 with length of service.
• Holiday Buy – opportunity to buy up to 5 days holiday.
• Pension Scheme – enrolled in our Group Personal Pension schemes upon joining the business.
• Bonus – In addition to our competitive salaries, all employees are entitled to join a discretionary bonus scheme (based on policy eligibility).
• Wagestream Money Management app – access to Wagestream gives you power over your pay and supports financial wellbeing.
• Continued Development – We offer structured support from our own in‑house Learning and Development Hub.
• Salary Sacrifice scheme for electric vehicles (dependent on grade and meeting policy eligibility).
• Continued Development – Inclusion on our Leadership Development Programme (eligibility for contracts of 6 months plus Grade D & E roles only).
• Private Healthcare with additional Babylon Digital Healthcare (based on contract duration).
• Life Assurance.
• White City House (Soho House Group) Tenants Membership at a discounted rate, offering access to facilities in the House.

Additional Benefits:

• Fruit basket daily.
• Tea and coffee provided.
• Working from Home – option to work from home on Mondays and Fridays.
• Social – Christmas party/social events throughout the year.
• Seasonal Sample Sales.
• Volunteer Day – with a charity of your choice.
• Great Location – close to transport links – over ground Shepherds Bush station / underground White City & Wood Lane stations. Westfield shopping centre with shops‑restaurants‑bars‑cinema and gyms.

At The White Company we are committed to creating an inclusive culture that welcomes and celebrates a diversity of backgrounds and identities. We are working together to ensure our environment is one where people can bring their authentic selves to work, where their contributions are valued, ability enhanced, and perspective appreciated. Where difference is respected, encouraged, and celebrated. Where you can feel you belong. We are committed to an active Equality Diversity and Inclusion Policy, which starts with our recruitment and selection process.