Lead Buyer

K.A.G. Recruitment is partnering exclusively with a leading UK retailer in their search to find a Lead Buyer to join their team based in Leeds (LS10). Position: Lead Buyer Salary: £50,000 - £57,000 (DOE) Location: Leeds (LS10) Hours: Monday to Friday 8 00am to 4 00pm (40 hrs site based) Reporting to: Procurement & Supply Chain Controller About the RoleAs Lead Buyer you will manage day-to-day procurement activities, delivering best value across raw materials, packaging and indirect spend. You'll drive supplier performance, negotiate commercial agreements, reduce costs and support a resilient, efficient supply chain. Key Responsibilities • Lead procurement operations and support procurement strategy. • Manage supplier tenders, negotiations and contracts. • Build strategic supplier relationships and improve cost, quality and service. • Deliver cost-saving and margin improvement initiatives. • Work with Planning, Technical, Operations and Finance to ensure material availability. • Monitor markets, manage supply risks and identify sourcing opportunities. • Support sustainability and responsible sourcing objectives. • Drive continuous improvement, governance and KPI reporting. Skills • Procurement experience in food manufacturing, FMCG or similar. • Strong negotiation, supplier management and contract experience. • Proven record of delivering measurable cost savings. • Commercially astute with strong analytical and Excel skills. • Experience with ERP/MRP systems and stakeholder management. • CIPS qualification or studying towards it is desirable. About YouYou will be an experienced Buying Manager with a proven track record in FMCG delivering commercial growth within a fast-paced retail environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Buying professional to join a highly successful organisation and play a key role in shaping the future of the business and growth.