Senior Buyer

Job Title: Senior Buyer Report to: Managing Director Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday Location: Kent Salary: C. £50,000 Role Summary The Senior Buyer will lead procurement strategy, supplier negotiations, and category performance management within a fast-paced food and FMCG environment. The role is responsible for ensuring a commercially competitive and profitable product offering while maintaining strong supplier relationships and high standards of quality and service. This position combines strategic sourcing, market analysis, supplier management, and cross-functional collaboration to support business growth across retail, wholesale, and foodservice channels. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement category sourcing strategies aligned with commercial objectives and customer requirements. Build and maintain strong relationships with UK and international suppliers to secure competitive pricing, reliable supply, and long-term partnerships. Monitor market conditions, commodity trends, currency fluctuations, and cost drivers to manage margins and minimise commercial risk. Identify opportunities for product range expansion and improvement based on customer demand, market trends, and commercial performance. Work closely with technical and compliance teams to ensure products meet food safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Collaborate with supply chain and operations teams to optimise stock levels, minimise waste, and maintain continuity of supply. Support sales, marketing, and finance teams with tenders, promotions, forecasting, and new product launches. Conduct supplier performance reviews using agreed KPIs and service level expectations. Produce regular internal and external supplier performance reports. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across procurement and supply chain functions. About You Previous experience in a senior buying or procurement role within FMCG, food, chilled products, or a related sector. Strong negotiation, commercial awareness, and supplier management skills. Experience working with international suppliers and import processes. The ability to interpret market data, commodity trends, and pricing impacts. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively across departments. Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment. A passion for food and product development would be advantageous. If you are interested in this role, please contact jack.thomson@drnewitt.com or call 0131 226 5060