SENIOR CATEGORY BUYER (FOOD)
Job Title: Senior Category Buyer (Food)
Reports To: Head of Procurement / Buying Manager
Job Type: Full-Time
Position Summary:
We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Category Buyer to manage and develop our Food portfolio. This role is critical in driving profitability, sales, and market share through expert category management, supplier relationship management, and data-driven sourcing. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food trends, a strong commercial acumen, and a proven track record in food procurement or retail buying.
Key Responsibilities:
Category Strategy & Management:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive category strategy for an assigned food segment (e.g., Fresh Produce, Dry Goods, Frozen, Dairy, Bakery).
- Conduct ongoing market analysis to identify trends, consumer shifts, and new product opportunities.
- Manage the entire product lifecycle, from new product introduction (NPI) to end-of-life delisting.
- Analyze sales data, sell-through rates, and inventory levels to optimize product assortment and shelf placement.
Sourcing & Supplier Management:
- Lead the end-to-end sourcing process: supplier identification, RFQ/RFP processes, negotiation, and contract finalization.
- Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with existing and new suppliers.
- Evaluate supplier performance based on quality, cost, delivery, and service metrics.
- Source and onboard local, sustainable, or exclusive brands to create a unique market position.
Commercial & Financial Acumen:
- Set competitive pricing strategies to achieve target margin goals and drive sales.
- Manage the category P&L, taking ownership for sales, margin, and inventory targets.
- Negotiate and secure annual agreements, rebates, and promotional funding with suppliers.
- Control the Open-to-Buy (OTB) budget to ensure optimal stock levels and minimize waste.
Supply Chain & Operations:
- Work closely with the supply chain and logistics teams to ensure efficient product flow and on-time delivery.
- Proactively address supply chain disruptions and implement contingency plans.
- Ensure all suppliers and products comply with company quality, safety, and ethical sourcing standards.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Collaborate with the Marketing team to plan and execute effective promotional campaigns and in-store merchandising.
- Partner with the Sales and Store Operations teams to ensure flawless execution of category plans.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Must have 3-5 years of experience as a Buyer, Category Manager, or similar role within the food retail, wholesale, or FMCG industry.
- Demonstrated expertise in category management principles and P&L management.
- Proven track record of successful supplier negotiation and contract management.
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in using data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, BI software) and ERP systems.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Deep understanding of food safety standards and supply chain dynamics.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
