Here at Hays, we are working with a soft drinks manufacturer supplier based in the North East to recruit for a Buyer on a permanent basis. This is a full-time role that is predominately onsite with some flexibility working from home. The role is paying between £35k -£45K, along with some excellent employee benefits. Role Overview:The buyer is responsible for procuring goods and services essential for daily business operations, including direct product needs (packaging, ingredients) and indirect purchasing.Key Responsibilities:

Collaborate with the Strategic Buyer for supplier sourcing and evaluation.
Build and maintain supplier relationships to negotiate favourable terms.
Monitor supplier performance (quality, cost, OTIF).
Ensure product alignment with company needs.
Manage the Material Planner, providing coaching and training.
Oversee the purchase order process, ensuring timely and accurate stock ordering.
Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstocking.
Coordinate with logistics for efficient delivery.
Negotiate pricing and contracts to maintain quality and competitive pricing.
Analyse market trends to forecast pricing changes and mitigate risks.
Ensure compliance with company policies, ethical standards, and laws.
Develop and lead a Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) program.
Support zero loss projects and tender processes.
Produce reports on supplier performance and improvement plans.
Drive cost and production efficiency to improve KPIs and service levels.
Maintain live Finished Goods Bills of Material.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

Experience in FMCG and Manufacturing, preferably in food and beverage.
Highly computer-literate with strong problem-solving, decision-making, and project management skills.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
Understanding of Contract Law and manufacturing processes.
Experience with Sage 200 is beneficial.

General:

Follow Health and Safety and Environmental Policies.
Ensure quality of work and promote equal opportunities and diversity.
Undertake training and understand company products and policies.

If this role sounds of interesting, please click 'apply'.

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