* Proactively address and resolve issues related to delivery delays, inventory shortages, and quality concerns.
* Negotiate pricing, contract terms, and conditions with suppliers to ensure optimal value; conduct benchmarking where appropriate.
* Maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers while actively identifying and evaluating new sourcing opportunities.
* Monitor and evaluate supplier performance, including quality, reliability, and adherence to delivery schedules.
* Collaborate cross-functionally with production, technical, new product development (NPD), and warehouse teams to align procurement strategies with operational requirements.
* Maintain accurate and current records of supplier contracts and purchasing commitments.
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain function to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
* Analyse market trends and perform cost analysis to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.
* Support NPD initiatives by sourcing raw materials, ingredients, and samples required for product trials.
* Work closely with the technical team to ensure compliance and continuity of A-list approved suppliers.
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o Supplier Management & Compliance
* Cost Management & Value Delivery
* Cross-Functional Alignment
* Procurement process improvements
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o Minimum 2–4 years of experience in procurement, preferably within chilled food or perishable goods manufacturing.
* Proven negotiation and vendor management skills
* Knowledge of cold chain logistics and perishable inventory control.
* Working knowledge of food safety and regulatory compliance standards
* Familiarity with ERP systems
* Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple time-sensitive projects.
* Effective communicator both verbal & written.
* Ability to adapt to an ever-changing business environment.
* Ability to influence & motivate others.
* Understanding of the UK supply base & retail
Hours of work 07:30-16:00 Monday - Friday
Benefits
33 days holiday
Life assurance at 4 x salary
4% company pension contributions
staff sales
Benefits platform - retailer discounts, GP hotline, Employee Assistance Programme