Head of Buying

Solent Group works with a diverse portfolio of retailers and supplies 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 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. Reports To Global Sourcing & Technical Director Location Hybrid (min 1 day in office) Travel UK and EU Purpose of the role The purpose of this role is to oversee and manage buying projects from initial concept through to successful launch. This includes pricing negotiation, lead time control, quality control, and production innovation to ensure successful product launches. A significant attribute needed is manufacturing expertise and relationship management, which ensures efficient communication and coordination with the factories, customers, and internal cross‑functional team. Key Responsibilities Build strong relationships internally with Product, Operations, Commercial and Technical teams, as well as our global UK/SA/China/Vietnam teams. Develop and maintain strong relationships with all factories and customers to ensure growth of strong partnerships. Manage a global team working in hybrid locations, maintaining clear objectives, alignment and achieving joint KPIs. Support the division business growth through robust category plan strategy and lead suppliers’ joint business plan. Lead UK & EU buying strategy, supplier cost management and income. Ensure consistent availability and market‑beating cost prices. Lead Mintec reporting and analysis across the team. Provide coaching and training to the teams, leading company values and maintaining a positive working environment. Work collaboratively with Product, Technical, Supply Chain, Commercial & suppliers. Manage and plan the team travel and ensure annual budgets are managed and cost reductions driven Year‑over‑Year. Lead risk management and negotiations with suppliers. Manage innovations and market trends to increase business opportunities. About you University or high diploma graduate. Minimum 10 years of industry experience in sourcing, product development or project management. Minimum 5 years’ experience in leadership and team management. Strong product knowledge across non‑food and food product development. Strong supplier relationship management. Strong market, business & commercial sense with strong analytical skills. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Strong negotiation skills. What we offer Competitive salary with annual salary reviews. 25 days holiday per annum, increasing to 27 days after 3 years' service and 30 days after 5 years' service. Extensive benefits program including buying additional holiday, medical cash plan and access to mental health support. Flexible hours and work from home available to all staff. Great learning and development and progression opportunities, yearly bonus structure (based on company targets). Enhanced maternity and paternity leave. Generous company sick pay. Pension scheme contribution. Solent social events run by our in‑house social team. Cycle to work scheme. Dress‑down Fridays. Free parking on Christchurch Quay. Seniority level Not Applicable Employment type Full‑time Job function Purchasing and Supply Chain Industries Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr