Junior Buyer

A leading FMCG manufacturer is currently seeking a Junior Buyer to join their integrated supply chain team. This is a Monday to Friday office-based role, with 1-day WFH a week. Alongside salary, benefits include a 12.5% bonus, company pension with attributed private medical and life assurance. Supporting a Senior Buyer, the successful Junior Buyer will play a critical role in ensuring the seamless flow of materials across their production and warehousing facilities. This isn’t just about placing orders; it’s about managing relationships, solving real-time supply challenges, and directly contributing to production and sustainability goals. Junior Buyer responsibilities include: * Own the Pipeline: Track, place, and manage purchase orders within SAP, ensuring complete accuracy to keep production running smoothly. * Drive Efficiency: Proactively identify potential supplier delays, expedite timelines, and strategically transfer stock between warehouses to optimise space. * Build Relationships: Cultivate strong, proactive connections with both UK and international suppliers. * Commercial Growth: Support the team by conducting market benchmarking, running tenders, and participating in negotiations to secure optimal price competitiveness and cost-reduction initiatives. * Collaborate: Share purchasing forecasts externally and feedback potential material insights internally to all key departments. The successful Junior Buyer will be a self-motivated, results-driven professional who loves working as part of a collaborative team. Ideally, you will bring: * Industry Background: Experience working within an FMCG / manufacturing environment * Buying Experience: Proven experience at an assistant or junior buyer level. * Tech Savvy: Strong Excel skills and essential knowledge of SAP (or a similar operating system). * Agility: The ability to make informed decisions quickly in a fast-paced environment and fluidly re-prioritise when plans shift. * Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels. * Ambition: A positive attitude, a focus on continuous self-development, and a willingness to work towards your CIPS qualification (company supported)