Overview
The Purchasing Manager will oversee procurement and supply chain strategy for an international food retail and wholesale business specialising in authentic Asian and African products. The role requires strong commercial leadership, deep knowledge of food import/export regulations, and the ability to negotiate with overseas suppliers. Fluency in Indian languages (such as Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, or Bengali) is essential to communicate effectively with suppliers and producers across the Indian subcontinent, ensuring authenticity, quality, and cultural alignment in sourcing.
Key Responsibilities
•Procurement Strategy: Plan and implement purchasing policies for sourcing authentic food products from Asia, Africa, and other regions.
•Supplier Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with international suppliers, especially in India and South Asia, using Indian language skills to negotiate contracts and resolve issues effectively.
•Import & Compliance: Ensure all imports meet UK food safety, customs, and labelling regulations.
•Market & Product Authenticity: Identify authentic brands and products recognised by diaspora communities (e.g., spices, grains, oils), and maintain culturally relevant sourcing.
•Budget & Cost Control: Monitor expenditure, control costs, and negotiate competitive pricing while safeguarding quality.
•Leadership & Coordination: Lead the purchasing team, liaise with retail managers, and coordinate with logistics partners to ensure smooth supply.
•Risk & Sustainability: Assess risks in supply chains (currency fluctuations, political changes, seasonal issues) and adopt sustainable sourcing practices.
•Community & Cultural Insight: Use knowledge of Indian languages and culture to understand customer demand, ensure authenticity, and strengthen trust with community stakeholders.
Skills & Experience Required
•Proven experience in procurement or supply chain management at a senior level.
•Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, especially with overseas vendors.
•Fluency in one or more Indian languages (e.g. Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, Bengali) plus good command of English.
•In-depth knowledge of Indian and African food markets, products, and consumer expectations.
•Understanding of international trade, shipping, and customs procedures.
•Excellent leadership, communication, and financial planning skills.