Overview
Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce - 365 days a year & across the globe. We are recognised as the leading #avoexperts and a supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers served from offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
We have a new opportunity for a Procurement Category Manager to work within one of three categories: Packaging, MRO, and Indirect. The role is based in the UK (Kings Hill or Spalding) on a hybrid basis, with travel across Europe required.
As Procurement Category Manager, you will play a central role within one of the three categories (Indirect, Packaging or MPO). You will drive category growth and product performance, work with key customers to develop innovative strategies, and become a subject matter expert on products within your category. You will be a trusted business partner supporting Westfalia Fruit's commercial growth objectives in 2025 and beyond. Domestic and international travel will be required across Europe.
Responsibilities
* Develop and lead the category vision for avocado and value-added product lines across key European growth markets.
* Lead the development of the short- and long-term category agenda in alignment with growth plans and ensure its execution with customers.
* Translate category insights into actionable recommendations for customers, driving growth through assortment optimisation, shelving strategies, and promotional effectiveness.
* Present category strategies and business reviews to customers, highlighting growth opportunities for the category and Westfalia products.
* Collaborate with internal teams to align category initiatives with overall business objectives.
* Lead the category development agenda for innovation projects with cross-functional teams to introduce new products and improve offerings.
* Set the agenda for category growth and ensure flawless execution of category projects with sales and commercial teams.
* Develop customer-specific planograms and assortment strategies, working with space management teams.
Requirements
Essential Experience, Qualifications & Skills:
* Proven experience in a specific category of spend and strategic sourcing within a corporate or multinational environment. Food industry experience is essential; fresh produce experience is highly advantageous.
* Fluency in English with strong cross-cultural communication skills.
* Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record in supplier relationship management and cost optimisation.
* Advanced analytical and project management abilities, including strategic planning and risk assessment.
* Ability to work independently and lead cross-functional teams across multiple geographies.
Desirable Experience, Qualifications & Skills:
* Fluency in French is highly desirable.
* MBA or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) certification.
* Previous experience in fresh produce, food, or FMCG sectors.
* Familiarity with MS Dynamics 365 or other ERP systems.
* Proficiency in additional European languages (Spanish, German, Dutch or Portuguese).
* Strong understanding of sustainable sourcing, innovation pipelines, and supply market dynamics.
Benefits
* Hybrid working (3–4 days on-site and 1/2 day working from home).
* 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays.
* Life Insurance.
* Private medical insurance.
* Company pension plan.
* Medicash plan.
* Discretionary bonus.
Please note that this position does not have a specific closing date. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the advert may be removed at any time.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, veteran status, neurodiversity or disability status.
Location: Redhill, Kings Hill, Gillingham, Croydon, Dartford and other UK locations; travel across Europe may be required.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Purchasing and Supply Chain
Industries: Food and Beverage Services
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