Raw Materials Buyer

Howdens Joinery is looking for an experienced Buyer to join our busy Raw Materials Procurement team at our site based at Howden, East Yorkshire, to manage the commercial relationship with our international suppliers and further develop commercial options for supply as we continue to grow. 

As a Raw Materials Buyer, you will work on developing new products, new suppliers and new materials as we continue to shape the supply base to meet the needs of the business from a cost, quality, ESG and availability perspective.

You will have a direct impact on the P&L and the cost of goods sold through the product portfolio you with be responsible for sourcing. You will play a key role in working with the Head of Procurement in developing our long-term growth plans with our suppliers and ensuring the supply base can meet the needs of our manufacturing operation and, ultimately, our depots.  

We are looking for an excellent influencer and negotiator, who thrives in internal and external stakeholder and supplier engagement - someone with excellent Analytical skills with an excellent eye for detail.

Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will be responsible for managing a significant raw material spend that is converted into kitchen furniture at our manufacturing sites in the UK. 

What do I need to qualify for the Raw Materials Buyer:

• Demonstrable buying experience
• Previous experience in a supplier-focused role
• Experience in packaging and corrugate would be advantageous but not essential
• Strong cost negotiation skills
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with great attention to detail
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills
• Confident in decision-making
• Relevant industry experience would be preferred – KBB Background

What we offer:

• Competitive Salary + Bonus
• Pension Plan with a maximum company contribution of 12%
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with an opportunity to purchase additional days
• Staff discount
• Ongoing support and development
• Free lunch at our onsite canteen
• Free onsite car parking
• Friendly and supportive environment offering exceptional reward and recognition

About Us:

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 800 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. With an ambitious and credible growth plan, we continue to build on our £2.3 billion sales made last year.

There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment.  That, along with a competitive salary, development opportunities, and exciting rewards, are among the reasons why our people enjoy working for Howdens – and why we have been named one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For.

How to apply:

We are building a future where world-class service, innovation, and sustainability are embedded within our DNA.  If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career as part of the procurement team, then we are keen to hear from you.

You will need to activate your account when you apply for this role.  Please check your email carefully to ensure that you have completed this step.  We are unable to view your application if you have not activated your account.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

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