A leading UK FMCG wholesale business is looking to recruit a Category Buying Manager to oversee the Trading and Category Strategy for their Soft Drinks and Confectionery ranges. The company are an award-winning business and a major player in the retail and foodservice sector, and this will be a key appointment in their quest to continue their success.
About the role
Reporting to the Buying Director, this will be a high-profile role where you will be responsible for managing the commercial relationships with predominantly branded suppliers to maximise income, whilst optimising cost and margin. You will negotiate all trading terms with your suppliers including overriders and advertising agreements, in order to deliver a promotional calendar that will drive sales and keep the company ahead of the competition. You will conduct range reviews, work collaboratively with suppliers and internal contacts to produce joint business plans, with ultimate accountability for margin and profitability of your category.
About the Person
This would suit someone with a wholesale and / or retail Buying background who has significant experience in grocery categories, especially Confectionery and / or Soft Drinks. However, we will consider other brand-led ambient grocery category experience such as Snacks, Tinned and Dried foods. Either way, you will have a strong appreciation of Category Management principals and excellent sourcing, supply base management and negotiation skills. You will have a proven track record of success in driving cost efficiencies and adding value through the identification of commercial opportunities. Ideally, you will have experience in dealing with a varied supply base from large, branded suppliers to mainstream distributors to specialist brands. You will also have a collaborative working style, with the ability to influence both internal and external stakeholders.
What you’ll get in return:
For the successful applicant, you will be given the opportunity to earn a competitive basic salary in a vibrant and supportive environment where you will play a lead role in their ambitious growth plans. There will be a mix of working from their offices in South Yorkshire and 1-2 days of home / remote working. All of this with a business that are committed to creating a fantastic place to work and empowering their employees to be directly involved in their success.
What to do now:
If you believe you have the background, skills and experience outlined above, and are ready for a new challenge where you can make a genuine difference, please apply now with an up-to-date copy of your CV.