Category Buying Manager

Barfoots; Bognor Regis; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading vertically integrated farming and food business is offering a senior management opportunity in their Supply Chain Team. The role includes managing supplier relationships, leading a high-performing team, and executing strategic initiatives to drive growth and efficiency. Candidates are required to have extensive experience in the Fresh Produce sector and strong commercial acumen.

Benefits

Investors In People - Silver Award status

Company pension scheme

Life Assurance

Employee Assistance Program

Benefits Platform

Cycle to work scheme

Free onsite parking

Approved training centre for Highfield qualifications

Qualifications

• 5+ years of purchasing experience in the Fresh Produce industry.
• Strong command of the English language; Spanish is an advantage.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of P&L.

Responsibilities

• Drive cash margin growth across the product portfolio.
• Develop and nurture long-standing supplier relationships.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Team Management

Commercial Awareness

P&L Management

Crop Production Techniques

Logistical Understanding

English Language Proficiency

Spanish (advantage)

MS Office Proficiency

Job description

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At Barfoots, growing is in our nature. From our humble beginnings over 40 years ago as a small family farm, we have evolved into a leading vertically integrated farming and food business. Spanning thousands of acres and employing thousands of people worldwide, we grow, process, pack, and deliver a wide range of fresh vegetables. Supplying premium products to all of the UK’s major retailers, we take pride in our work and our commitment to sustainability.

The Role

We are offering a rare and exciting opportunity to join our dynamic Supply Chain Team in a senior management capacity. We are looking for a dedicated and proactive professional who will thrive in a fast-paced, sometimes challenging environment. Reporting to the Head of Buying, you will lead the Supply Chain business unit, overseeing the efficient sourcing and management of a diverse product portfolio. Candidates can also expect international travel, visiting suppliers around the globe, in turn presenting an exceptional platform to showcase and develop your industry skills and experience.

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Drive cash margin growth across the product portfolio – full P&L responsibility
• Purchase goods at the lowest Total Ultimate Cost
• Develop and nurture long standing supplier relationships
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities/sources
• Understand crop management, technical requirements & product specifications
• Develop crop strategies for product portfolio in line with the overall Supply Chain Strategy
• Working collaboratively with relevant departments to ensure seamless processes
• Leading, developing and managing a high performing team
• Develop KPIs for the business unit fully aligned with Company Objectives
• Build and implement annual budget for crop portfolio
• Engage in Barfoots S&OP processes from a Supply Chain perspective

Required Skills & Experience

• 5 years+ purchasing experience in the Fresh Produce industry
• Knowledge of factory and technical requirements
• Team Management/Supervisory experience
• Strong Commercial awareness & business acumen
• Financial understanding of Budget & P&L
• Basic understanding of crop production techniques
• Understanding of factors that affect quality
• Understanding of international logistical cool chains shipping via sea, road and air
• Strong command of English Language both written & spoken
• Additional language (Spanish) a distinct advantage
• Proficient in the use of MS Office applications, email, MRP systems and the internet
• Full driving licence & valid passport

Why Work for Barfoots?

• Investors In People - Silver Award status
• Company pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Benefits Platform
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Approved training centre for Highfield qualifications