Category Buyer - Raw Materials

Procurement Category Buyer - Raw Materials

What does it feel like to really own a category?

Not just manage suppliers.

Not just place orders.

But shape sourcing strategy, influence stakeholders, protect supply and see your decisions land on shelves and plates across the UK.

At Mizkan Euro , that’s exactly what this role is about.

We’re looking for a Category Buyer (Raw Materials) who wants accountability, visibility and the space to think strategically while still being hands‑on.

Why this role exists

Our procurement team plays a critical role in protecting the business, from cost volatility, supply risk and quality challenges,while enabling growth across our brands.

You’ll take ownership of 7-8 raw material categories with 3-4 of these being classed as Key Categories , developing short and long‑term sourcing strategies, building trusted supplier relationships, and working closely with Technical, NPD, Operations and Finance to keep the business moving.

This is a true buying role, not supply chain, not retail purchasing.

What you’ll be doing?

You’ll be trusted to:

• Develop and execute robust category sourcing strategies
• Own budgets, forecasts, and cost drivers across your categories
• Build strong, transparent relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Manage risk and continuity of supply in a complex FMCG environment
• Lead should‑cost modelling, specification analysis, and value engineering
• Influence decisions at all levels and take ownership end‑to‑end

Roughly 50% strategic, 50% hands‑on, with the freedom to take initiative and shape how things are done.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll likely be someone who:

• Has 3–5 years’ procurement / buying experience within FMCG food manufacturing (chemicals/pharma also considered)
• Holds (or is completing) CIPS Level 4
• Has real buying fundamentals, sourcing, negotiation, supplier management
• Brings confidence, curiosity, and strong stakeholder presence
• Enjoys owning problems, not waiting to be told what to do

Experience with ingredients, colours, flavours, fruit or vegetables is a bonus, but not essential.

What matters most is how you think, influence, and take ownership.

Why Mizkan?

Mizkan blends Japanese heritage with a modern, open, and people‑led culture.

In Procurement, you’ll find:

• A collaborative, transparent team that values ideas
• Strong cross‑functional relationships
• The space to influence and be listened to
• A supportive environment where you can grow without ego

We work hard, support each other, meet often and enjoy doing it together.

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