Zertus UK & Ireland / Lir Chocolates
Based at Lir Chocolates, Navan, Co. Meath
Position type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 37.5
Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday, 08:30 - 16:30
Closing date: Friday 12th June 2026
Are you looking to grow your expertise in procurement and build a rewarding career in buying? We’re looking for a Category Buyer to join our team and oversee the buying of key ingredients within our confectionery category for Lir Chocolates, playing a key role in supporting our innovation and sustainability goals! We’re looking for someone with a strong commercial mindset to manage supplier relationships, drive cost savings, and ensure our confectionery meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, lead negotiations, and support our commitment to environmental goals. If you’re ready to grow your expertise in procurement and make an impact in the food industry, we want to hear from you!
Responsibilities
Oversee designated procurement categories, ensuring best‑practice buying, strong commercial value, and delivery of KPI targets.
Develop and implement category strategies through supplier, market, and supply‑chain analysis.
Manage supplier relationships, including performance reviews, alignment to ethical and regulatory standards, and ongoing improvement activities.
Drive strategic projects, category innovation, and cost‑reduction initiatives in collaboration with key stakeholders (Supply Chain, Technical, NPD, Operations, Finance).
Maintain accurate pricing, supplier data (QAD), and financial records, while establishing contingency plans for key materials.
Negotiate contracts, tenders, and renewals using effective procurement techniques.
Manage inventory and surplus stock, resolve PPV variances and invoice queries, and support product quality by assisting with non‑conformities.
Provide insights on market and pricing trends, and travel to suppliers, sites, and industry events (approx. 4-5 times per year).
Qualifications
Experience in category‑led procurement within food manufacturing, with a proven track record in supplier negotiation and cost‑saving initiatives.
Strong commercial acumen, analytical skills, and knowledge of materials and processes for materials.
Competent with MRP/stock systems and IT, including MS Office.
Ability to work independently, influence senior colleagues, and communicate effectively with excellent interpersonal skills.
Degree‑level education and CIPS qualification or equivalent (Desirable but not essential - future training and development can be available via Zertus).
Willingness to travel as needed to sites, suppliers, and other location across the UK - valid passport required.
Competency in core procurement skills, including negotiation.
Benefits
Annual bonus plan with earning potential of up to 10% of salary.
Holiday entitlement of 25 days + bank holidays.
Lir chocolates employee pension plan at 1.5%.
Various salary sacrifice schemes including pension payments, cycle to work and electric car (subject to meeting minimum criteria).
Hybrid working.
Zertus UK & Ireland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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