EU/UK BUYING MANAGER

Solent Group work with a diverse portfolio of Retailers and supply bespoke products within various categories, including Health & Beauty, Household Impulse Snacking and Reusable Bags. We are proud to be best-in-class when it comes to own-label product innovation. Our Categories are fast-paced with ever-evolving trends and a host of ground-breaking products coming to market on a regular basis – we add value to retailers by leading and owning each category. Here at Solent we want people to be extraordinary. We pride ourselves on creating and producing amazing products and brands for our Global Customers. You will be joining a company with offices globally across South Africa, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vietnam, and the UK. POSITION: EU/UK Buying Manager DIVISION/DEPARTMENT: Buying & Project Management REPORTS TO: Global Buying Director LOCATION: Christchurch, Dorset (Hybrid) TRAVEL: UK and Europe The Opportunity- EU/UK Buying Manager Solent Group is seeking an experienced Buyer to join the team, the focus of which is to oversee the sourcing, buying and supply of FMCG products in the retail sector across the UK and Europe. To be successful in this role you have a strategic mindset and proven experience of product lifecycles, costings and UK/European manufacturing processes, with a focus on delivering high quality products to customers. You will work cross functionally and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers who you will visit across the UK and Europe, so great communication skills are key. Key Responsibilities Develop and execute sourcing and procurement strategies to ensure an efficient and cost-effective diverse supplier base Collaborate with manufacturers and our internal technical team to maintain adherence to quality standards and compliance with a clear focus on cost targets and production timelines Support the UK product teams with new products into the market by overseeing the product development process, from concept to production. Conduct critical path analysis to optimise the supply chain and minimise lead lines Implement and maintain effective communication channels with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless coordination and collaboration across the group About You Experience in global sourcing, procurement and manufacturing within the FMCG sector Proven track record of successful new product development Extensive experience in critical path analysis, costings and supply chain optimization Strong understanding of the manufacturing processes and quality control Experience in buying food product is advantageous We Offer Competitive salary with annual salary reviews Structured bonuses (based on company & individual performance) Work flexibly: work where it works for you Salary sacrifice pension scheme Medical cash plan 25 days holiday per annum, increasing to 27 days after 3 years’ service and 30 days after 5 years’ service Learning and development and progression opportunities Solent social events run by our inhouse Social Team Cycle to work scheme Please visit us at https://.../work-with-us/ for further details. At Solent Group, we celebrate diversity and promote equality and inclusion across our global teams. We welcome applications from all, regardless of personal characteristics or background.