Kirsty’s is a rapidly growing food manufacturing business, trading over multiple categories within the chilled & frozen fixtures supplying all major retailers.
In a relatively modest factory, we can produce up to 200,000 meals a week our culture is built on respect, teamwork, ambition and excellence, if you think you represent these values then we would love to hear from you!
Overview
We are looking for an junior buyer to join our team and take responsibility for optimizing sourcing strategies, building strong supplier relationships, and driving cost-effective and sustainable purchasing decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Sourcing: Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers that offer the best value in terms of price, quality, service, and sustainability.
- Buying Better: Continuously challenge the status quo to improve cost efficiency, reduce waste, and support more sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
- Supplier Management: Develop strong partnerships with key suppliers, negotiate contracts, and monitor performance to ensure reliability and value delivery.
- Market Analysis: Stay informed on market trends, commodity pricing, and global supply chain dynamics to inform smart buying decisions.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Production, Quality Assurance, NPD, and Finance teams to ensure procurement aligns with business objectives and product requirements.
- Inventory Control: Maintain optimal stock levels to support production while minimizing holding costs and obsolescence.
- Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure all purchases comply with food safety regulations, company standards, and sustainability policies.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Use procurement analytics and KPIs to monitor performance and identify areas for continuous improvement.
Qualifications & Skills
- Proven experience in a buying/procurement role within food manufacturing or FMCG.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Familiarity with food industry compliance standards (e.g., BRC, HACCP).
- Passion for sustainable sourcing and ethical procurement.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
- Proficiency in procurement systems and Microsoft Excel; ERP experience a plus.
- Great communication and interpersonal skills.
Working at Kirsty’s
- Nutritious on-site meals
- Free Parking
- Company Pension
- Employee Recognition Scheme
- Medical Cash Plan
- 33 days holiday, including bank holidays
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Experience:
- buying within food manufacturing or FMCG.: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
