Purchasing Manager - Food/FMCG

Vickerstock; Craigavon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing firm in Northern Ireland is seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to oversee fresh produce planning and supplier negotiations. The ideal candidate has at least 2 years' experience in a similar role within the Food/FMCG sector. This position plays a key role in ensuring compliance with food safety standards while enhancing operational efficiencies. Competitive salary and professional development opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• 2 years' experience in a PM or Senior Procurement position within Food/FMCG.
• Experience with fresh produce is crucial.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Plan fresh produce from growing through to harvest.
• Monitor supplier performance and negotiate optimal pricing.
• Liaise daily with production to report stock levels.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing methodologies for process improvements.
• Collaborate with Technical Department on quality standards.
• Conduct effective contract negotiations with suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and ethical sourcing.

Skills

Supplier negotiation and sourcing experience

Fresh produce experience

Understanding of 'lean' principles

Job description

Overview

Vickerstock are working in partnership with a food manufacturingbusiness on the appointment of a Purchasing Manager on a full-time permamemt basis. Our client is a major player in the local food industry and service some of the largest food retailers across the GB and Ireland.

As the Purchasing Manager, you will have responsibility for both direct and indirect expenditure, with a core focus on fresh produce planning for the seasonal nature of food manufacturing. The successful applicant will have previous experience in a food manufacturing/food service environment.

In your new role:

• Plan fresh produce from growing through to harvest, staying informed with forecasting and production updates.
• Monitor supplier performance, negotiate optimal pricing, and strategically source new suppliers where required.
• Liaise daily with the production department to report stock levels and highlight any supply chain disruptions.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing methodologies to drive process improvements and operational excellence.
• Collaborate closely with the Technical Department to ensure alignment on quality standards, food safety compliance, and product development goals.
• Identify efficiency opportunities, implementing innovations and best practices to enhance operations.
• Prepare, submit, and manage tenders, conducting effective contract negotiations with suppliers.
• Uphold food safety and product integrity, ensuring all goods meet required standards.
• Conduct and support audits of suppliers and service providers, ensuring compliance with food safety, ethical sourcing, and legal obligations.
• Contribute to strategic projects, supporting business planning and risk mitigation in line with company growth objectives.
• Foster a culture of integrity, collaboration, and a "do the right thing" mindset across all interactions.
• Ensure the site remains audit-ready at all times through consistent food safety compliance.

What you will need to succeed:

• 2 years' in a PM or Senior Procurement position within Food/FMCG
• Fresh produce experience
• Supplier negotiation and sourcing experience
• Understanding of "lean" principles (advantageous)

For a confidential conversation on how Vickerstock can help support you with your next move, get in touch with our supply chain consultant Michael Irwin today!