Fresh Produce Buyer

University of Fort Hare; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Retail/FMCG company in Gqeberha seeks a Fresh Produce Buyer to oversee the procurement of high-quality fruits and vegetables. This role demands strong knowledge of the fresh produce market and excellent negotiation skills. The ideal candidate will have relevant qualifications in Agriculture, previous buying experience, and the ability to manage product quality to comply with Food Safety Standards. Join a dynamic team to ensure availability of fresh produce for customers and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Dynamic team environment

Critical role in fresh produce supply

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Agriculture or related field.
• In-depth knowledge of fresh produce procurement processes.
• Previous buying and trading experience required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee seasonal growing programs and evaluate grower performance.
• Negotiate and manage product purchase prices.
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety Standards.

Skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Organizational skills

Time-management skills

Education

Qualification in Agriculture / Agricultural Economics

Job description

Monthly Cost To Company (Medical Aid, Provident Fund, Incentive Bonus, Staff Discount , Market related)

Are you passionate about fresh produce and ready to take on a key procurement role within a dynamic Retail/FMCG company? Our client is seeking a skilled and experiencedFresh Produce Buyer for their branch in Gqeberha, to oversee the sourcing and procurement of high-quality fruits and vegetables.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• A relevant qualification in Agriculture / Agricultural Economics / Commercial related field
• In-depth knowledge of fresh produce, particularly fruits and vegetables, and their procurement processes.
• Previous buying and trading experience required
• Management experience in a packhouse environment will be advantageous
• A valid driver's license.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with suppliers.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading, implementation and execution of seasonal growing programs while continuously evaluating grower performance
• Negotiating and managing product purchase prices to ensure profitability
• Achieve sales, gross profit and out of stock targets within your category
• Maintaining optimal stock levels for products and packaging, minimizing shortages and waste
• Overseeing product quality and ensure compliance with Food Safety Standards at producer level
• Conducting regular farm, competitor, and market visits to evaluate own category and stay ahead of trends
• Driving product development and timeously launch new items with impactful promotional activities
• Analyzing category, item performance and supplier data to identify growth opportunities
• Ensuring strict adherence to company buying and trading policiesCommunicate daily with suppliers regarding product availability, pricing, delivery schedules, and promotions.
• Ensure timely placement of daily orders based on growing program needs and store demands
• Verify invoices and goods received (GRVs) for accurate pricing and quantities.
• Record daily intake and track slot times for products/suppliers
• Perform additional administrative duties related to trading.

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• The opportunity to work with a dynamic team in the growing Retail/FMCG industry.
• A chance to play a critical role in ensuring the availability of fresh produce for customers.