We are recruiting a Head of Buying to manage our client’s group of businesses. You will be responsible for the strategic development, performance, and maintenance of the buying processes of the organisation to obtain the best possible combination of price, quality, and service.
Responsibilities:
- Manage and oversee all elements of the supply chain to ensure efficient and effective results for the company as a whole
- Ensure correct procedures are adhered to including product set-up, shipping, stock arrival into the warehouse, or direct shipments
- Apply knowledge and expertise to help improve and strengthen where possible exciting purchasing processes
- Assist in the development and preparation of the organisation’s buying process strategy and general business planning
- Continue to build excellent relationships with suppliers and in-house staff
- Stock forecasting, control, and order for all product categories
- Knowledge of stock forecasting system Slimstock would be a definite advantage
- Effective liaison, support, and assistance between buying department and rest of the organisation, in particular, the Sales & Product development teams to forecast upcoming demand levels, ensuring supply chain runs smoothly
- Manage, direct, and monitor the overall performance of the buying team. Contribute to training and development of the team
- Delegate authority and responsibility to the buying team with supervision, accountability, and review
- Meet targets and those of the team as a whole
- Assist in the integration of companies recently acquired, helping to ensure smooth integration into the main company infrastructure (suppliers/products)
- Track open purchase orders and ensure due dates are updated on Sage, ensuring customer-facing platforms display correct stock arrival dates
- Assist in the resolution of queries from other departments
- Requesting and authorising payments, handling inquiries and queries (Freight & Stock)
- Obtaining freight quotes (Sea & Air)
- International travel when necessary
Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years experience in a Buying / Merchandising or Supply Chain/Logistics role
- CIPS qualification would be an advantage
- Thorough understanding of buying process management, requirements, and dynamics
- The ability to use Sage and Slimstock would be advantageous
- Ability in buying process management and supplier relationship management
- Leadership with the ability to drive a buying process team
- Proven ability to coach and develop others
- Excellent analytical, interpersonal, organisational, and communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure