Booker Wellingborough, England, United Kingdom
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Booker Group is recruiting for a Head of Trade for Produce. In this role, you will manage a strategic, high-profile Category with full end-to-end accountability for the delivery of Sales, customer, and Profit targets.
You will be part of the Senior team with day-to-day responsibility for Direct Reports and a broader Team of Category Managers, Assistant Buyers, and Category Assistants. This role covers a complex supply base with multiple need states and involves strategic projects related to Retail and Catering, such as Supply Chain transformation, requiring cross-functional stakeholder engagement and leadership.
About the role
Manage a strategic category, oversee negotiations, develop and implement category plans, and deliver key metrics for Catering and Retail. Lead the category team, manage performance, and support diversity and inclusion initiatives. Drive growth of Own Brand, optimize product ranges, and collaborate with senior management on opportunities and process improvements. Ensure sustainable practices and uphold ethical standards.
Responsibilities
* Annual negotiations with suppliers to ensure competitive terms and coaching team where appropriate
* Development and implementation of category plans to meet key metrics
* Delivery of profit and customer satisfaction targets
* Ensure high inbound Supplier Service Levels
* Develop strategic plans and work cross-functionally to deliver them
* Lead and develop the category team, managing performance and talent development
* Grow Own Brand business through sourcing and innovation
* Optimize product range distribution across estates
* Identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation
* Collaborate with Finance for accurate forecasting
* Promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact
* Uphold company values, integrity, diversity, and ethical standards
* Ensure negotiations adhere to GSCOP guidelines
* Deputize for the Director of Trading when needed
Requirements
* Experience in Category Management in Produce
* In-depth Supply Chain knowledge
* Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills
* Understanding of Branch and Network processes
* Experience with multi-site customers and key accounts
* Strategic, analytical, and problem-solving skills
* Leadership skills to develop talent and drive performance
* Degree level education
* Skilled negotiator with supplier management experience
* Experience with supply base reviews and strategic sourcing
* Understanding of group buying and stakeholder engagement
* Proven ability to work autonomously and deliver results
What’s in it for you?
Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including employee discounts, insurance, health and wellbeing support, share schemes, pension, life assurance, and flexible working options. We promote diversity and an inclusive culture where everyone is welcome.
About Us
Booker is the UK's leading food & drink wholesaler, serving independent retailers, caterers, and small businesses across the country. We operate numerous branches and support centres UK-wide. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for all employees.
We are a Disability Confident employer and support accessible recruitment processes. For accessibility support, contact recruitment@bookergroup.com.
Please note: Candidates must be over 18 for roles involving early/late shifts or warehouse work. High-volume applications may close early. We only provide interview feedback to shortlisted candidates.
Booker Group is part of Tesco plc but operates separately; benefits differ from Tesco.
For more information, visit www.bookergroupjobs.co.uk
Additional details
* Seniority level: Director
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Other
* Industries: Wholesale
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