Buying Manager - Fruit

Morrisons; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading British supermarket is seeking an experienced Buying Manager to oversee procurement for raw fruit produce. This role involves executing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring product quality while achieving cost efficiencies. Strong negotiation skills and experience in the fresh produce market are essential for success. The position offers various perks including discounts and a robust benefits package.

Benefits

15% in-store discount

Annual bonus scheme

Career progression opportunities

Healthcare benefits

Free parking onsite

Qualifications

• Strong experience in a buying or procurement role focused on fresh produce.
• Demonstrated track record in leading high value commercial negotiations.
• Proven knowledge of supply chain mechanics for raw fruit commodities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute procurement strategies for raw fruit produce.
• Lead complex commercial negotiations with global suppliers.
• Monitor market trends to inform buying decisions.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Understanding of global sourcing

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Buying Manager to take full ownership of the procurement and negotiation for all raw Fruit produce supplied directly to our manufacturing sites for processing and packing.

This is a critical role that directly impacts our product quality, cost efficiency, and supply chain reliability. If you have a deep understanding of the global fresh produce market, exceptional negotiation skills, and a proven track record in strategic sourcing, we want to hear from you.

You must have a willingness and ability to travel regularly to our produce manufacturing sites (Northamptonshire, Yorkshire, and Cheshire) and to visit suppliers as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the procurement strategy for all raw Fruit produce, ensuring optimal cost, quality, and supply continuity.

• Lead complex commercial negotiations with a global supply base to secure the best possible pricing, terms, and contracts.

• Manage a significant annual spend within the Fruit category, delivering measurable cost savings and value improvement year on year.

• Monitor market trends, commodity price movements, and global supply dynamics to inform buying decisions and risk mitigation strategies.

• Ensure all sourcing activities comply with ethical, legal, and company standards, including sustainability and responsible sourcing policies.

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new strategic suppliers while fostering strong, long‑term partnerships with existing key growers and distributors.

• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews, focusing on quality, delivery, compliance, and innovation.

• Collaborate closely with Quality Assurance and Technical teams to ensure all incoming fruit meets stringent specifications and food safety standards for manufacturing.

• Work seamlessly with internal stakeholders, including Operations, Planning, NPD and Finance, to align procurement activities with production needs and business goals.

• Forecast demand accurately and manage inventory risk in collaboration with the planning function to minimise waste and ensure consistent supply.

About you

We’re looking for someone with strong experience in a buying or procurement role, with significant focus on fresh produce, specifically Fruit. You will have a demonstrable track record of success in leading high value commercial negotiations and achieving substantial cost savings. You will also have:

• Proven knowledge of global sourcing, supply chain mechanics, and quality specifications for raw fruit commodities destined for processing/manufacturing.

• Strong analytical skills, proficient in managing complex data sets and commercial models.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

About us

In return for all your hard work, you will receive:

• 15% discount in store from the day you join us

• Additional 10% discount card for a friend or family member

• Annual bonus scheme

• Career progression and development opportunities

• Generous holiday entitlement

• Market leading pension scheme and life assurance

• Healthcare benefits including Aviva Digital GP

• ‘MyPerks’ giving you discount with over 850 retailers

• Free parking onsite

• Enhanced Family, Maternity and Paternity Leave

• Private Healthcare

• Car Allowance (company car provided in some instances)

You’ll find a great big welcome here at Myton Food Group - the part of our business that looks after manufacturing, whilst maintaining strong roots within Morrisons Supermarkets.

At Myton Food Group, we have a legacy to be proud of. We’re British farming’s biggest single direct customer. We buy from highly valued suppliers. And we’re passionate about the quality of our food. Today, we have 19 manufacturing sites across the UK, where we pack and process fresh meats and fish, savoury and sweet pies, fruit and veg, flower bouquets, bread and lots more.

We really do stand out in the world of food manufacturing. But what we’re especially proud of is the way we all get stuck in and work as a team, in partnership across our supply chain. Read more about what we do at our Myton Food Group website.