Category Buyer

About the role

We are seeking a Category Buyer to manage the procurement of key ingredients for Lir Chocolates, supporting innovation and sustainability goals within our confectionery business.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee designated procurement categories, ensuring best‑practice buying, strong commercial value, and delivery of KPI targets.
• Develop and implement category strategies through supplier, market, and supply‑chain analysis.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance reviews, alignment to ethical and regulatory standards, and ongoing improvement activities.
• Drive strategic projects, category innovation, and cost‑reduction initiatives in collaboration with Supply Chain, Technical, NPD, Operations, and Finance teams.
• Maintain accurate pricing, supplier data (QAD), and financial records, and establish contingency plans for key materials.
• Negotiate contracts, tenders, and renewals using effective procurement techniques.
• Manage inventory and surplus stock, resolve PPV variances and invoice queries, and support product quality by assisting with non‑conformities.
• Provide market and pricing insights and travel to suppliers, sites, and industry events (approximately 4‑5 times per year).

Required profile

• Proven experience in category‑led procurement within food manufacturing, with a track record of supplier negotiation and cost‑saving initiatives.
• Strong commercial acumen and analytical skills, with knowledge of materials and processes.
• Degree‑level education; CIPS qualification desirable.
• Ability to work independently, influence senior colleagues, and travel as required (valid passport needed).

Required skills

• Experience with MRP/stock systems.
• Proficiency in QAD.
• Advanced use of MS Office.

What we offer

• Hybrid working model.
• Annual bonus plan with potential up to 10% of salary.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Pension plan at 1.5% and various salary‑sacrifice schemes (cycle to work, electric car).