Supplier Development Manager - Drinks

Quest Search & Selection is recruiting for a Supplier Development Manager - drinks within a leading own-label team. The purpose of this role is to deliver a reduction of costs, enhance supplier service levels, and maintain strong product availability. We are looking for a commercially focused buyer who can balance strategic project work with efficient day-to-day category management in a fast-moving environment.

Our client is a major B2B supplier and retailer, part of a large international group recognised for its strong brand influence, sustainable practices, and consistent financial growth.

• Develop and deliver sourcing strategies across assigned categories, evaluating existing and potential products, suppliers, and supply chains.

• Maintain a deep understanding of cost drivers, commodity markets, competitor behaviour, and wider industry trends.

• Lead cost price negotiations and manage communications across internal stakeholders to ensure alignment and transparency.

• Create and implement plans to reduce COGS across the current product range.

• Work closely with suppliers to identify cost-saving opportunities, value improvements, and new range development options.

• Strengthen the supply base by conducting detailed SWOT analyses and building action plans to enhance performance, reduce risk, and leverage commercial opportunities.

• Source and onboard new suppliers that offer improved value, innovation, or support new category initiatives.

• Experience in own-label buying, procurement, purchasing, or supplier management.

• Have experience & operating at a Sourcing, Category, Buyer, Senior Buyer, or Manager level.

• Minimum 3-4 + years' + buying experience in a retail or wholesale environment.

• Proven track record of managing COGS in own-label categories.

• Practical experience with production, manufacturing, or supply chain operations.

• Demonstrable success leading tenders and delivering measurable financial benefits.

• Excellent negotiation skills, employing multiple approaches to secure value.

• Strong competency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.

• Hybrid working model - 2/3 days WIO.

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

• Free on-site gym and free parking.

• Private healthcare.

• Competitive pension scheme.

• Ongoing learning & development opportunities.

If this Supplier Development Managerrole matches your experience and aspirations, please apply today quoting reference JO-2511-115319.

We request that candidates send their CV as a Microsoft Word document where possible.

Quest Search and Selection is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.