Purchasing Manager

Market-leading FMCG/Distribution business require a Purchasing Manager. Applicants need procurement or purchasing leadership experience, ideally gained within an FMCG, wholesale, or distribution/manufacturing environment.

The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for leading all procurement activities, tactical and strategic while overseeing the effective functioning of the procurement department. This market-leading FMCG business are importing products from the Far East on behalf of their trade and consumer customer base. The role will entail strategic management of the supplier base, close collaboration with sales in regards to customer forecasting activities and optimal management of inventory and stock holdings.

Specific duties of the Purchasing Manager include:

• Strategic management of Far Eastern manufacturing supply base - set operational KPIs and manage against contractual SLAs and T&Cs
• Manage and optimise stock/inventory holdings across multiple UK locations
• Supply market intelligence activities - supplier selection/de-selection
• Lead, motivate and develop a team of Buyers and Senior Buyers
• Liaison with Sales, Retail, Pricing and Wholesale teams to maximise commercial advantage
• Support business-wide initiatives to improve forecasting and demand planning

Purchasing Manager applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Experience as a Purchasing Manager, Procurement Manager, Supply Chain Manager or leadership procurement role
• Previous experience within an FMCG, Wholesale or Distribution/Manufacturing business would be advantageous
• Experience of operational and commercial supplier management
• Leadership skills, influencing ability and gravitas
• Analytical, process driven and able to use data to drive procurement decision making