Senior Buyer​/Head of Buying

Senior Buyer / Head of Buying

Location:

Amersham

Competitive Salary & Benefits

Our client are a fast-growing importer and distributor of Asian and Oriental food. They are seeking a commercially driven Senior Buyer/Head of Buying to operate at a senior leadership level directly alongside one of the founding Directors. This role requires international travel

The successful candidate will work with junior buyers/demand planners, imports and a technical team.

Communication and collaborative working will be key.

This role will take ownership of supplier and brand relationships within a defined geographical territory (likely East Asia and/or South Asia), leading all aspects of sourcing, negotiations, product development, and commercial strategy.

The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future product portfolio, improving internal buying processes, and driving profitability across the supply chain.

• Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
• Lead sourcing strategy across assigned regions (e.g., China, Korea, Japan, India, Sri Lanka)
• Build and manage relationships with international suppliers and partners
• Identify and onboard new suppliers and manufacturers
• Negotiate commercial terms, pricing structures, and supply agreements
• Brand Acquisition & Development
• Identify and secure distribution rights (exclusive or shared) for international brands
• Evaluate brand potential within the UK and Irish markets
• Develop long-term brand partnerships and growth strategies
• Negotiate and secure supplier-funded marketing support and investment
• Product Portfolio & Development
• Identify new product opportunities aligned with market trends
• Review, streamline, and enhance buying and product listing processes
• Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable systems and controls
• Introduce best practices in procurement, sourcing, and category management
• Have key input in increasing resources within the buying team.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations teams
• Align buying strategy with commercial and customer objectives
• Support go-to-market strategies for new and existing products

• Proven experience in a senior buying / procurement role
• Strong background in import buying, ideally within food or FMCG (but not essential)
• Experience working with international suppliers, particularly in Asia (preferred but not essential)
• Demonstrated success in:
  • Negotiating commercial agreements
  • Managing supplier relationships
  • Delivering margin improvement
  • Experience securing distribution rights for brands (highly desirable)
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills
• Ability to identify and capitalise on new product and brand opportunities
• Experience building and managing value chains
• Knowledge of product development and private label sourcing
• Understanding of marketing principles and ability to negotiate marketing budgets
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking ability