Buyer – Fresh Produce

As a Buyer specialising in fresh produce, you’ll be responsible for sourcing and purchasing top-quality fruits and vegetables for our wholesale and foodservice customers. You’ll be a key player in our team, ensuring we always have a steady supply of great produce at competitive prices.

This role is perfect for a proactive, skilled negotiator who understands the fresh produce market inside and out. You’ll build and maintain strong relationships with growers and suppliers, negotiate contracts, and manage logistics to guarantee timely deliveries. Staying on top of market trends, seasonal availability, and customer preferences will be crucial for making smart, cost-effective purchasing decisions.

What You’ll Do

• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers and growers.
• Monitor market trends, price fluctuations, and seasonal availability to inform purchasing decisions.
• Review and evaluate the quality and pricing of incoming produce.
• Manage inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Coordinate closely with logistics and warehouse teams to ensure timely deliveries.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Forecast demand using historical data, sales trends, and market insights.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and company standards.
• Collaborate with the Sales Team to understand customer needs.
• Conduct regular supplier audits and identify new supplier opportunities.
• Manage procurement budgets and track performance.
• Stay current with industry developments, best practices, and innovations.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience as a buyer in the fresh produce industry.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills with a knack for building solid relationships.
• Deep knowledge of market trends and seasonal produce cycles.
• Proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• An analytical mindset with excellent problem-solving skills and a strong attention to detail.
• Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• Experience with procurement budgeting and cost control.
• Familiarity with food safety standards and compliance.
• A well-established network of contacts within the produce industry.
• Willingness to travel for supplier visits and trade shows.

Benefits/Details

• Salary: Starting from £35,000 per year
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM, plus one weekend in three.
• Benefits: Company pension, additional leave, discounted food, free on-site parking, sick pay, casual dress, and company events.