Lead Buyer

Description:

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