The Graduate Procurement Executive role (Packaging) offers an exciting opportunity for you to contribute to developing and delivering customer‑ and business‑focused packaging solutions that enhance product performance and customer experience.
Reporting directly to the Packaging Procurement and Development Manager and working closely with colleagues across the business—including Product Development, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Marketing—you will support and lead a broad cross‑section of stimulating, challenging, and varied projects to further improve our sustainability position, deliver cost savings, drive continuous improvement, and create competitive advantage.
This role is based at our UK Headquarters in Trowbridge, Wiltshire.
Responsibilities
* Packaging Procurement Strategy: Support the Packaging Procurement and Development Manager with the sourcing and procurement of packaging materials, ensuring alignment with business objectives around cost, quality, sustainability, and innovation.
* Technical Packaging Development: Provide support in the design, testing, and implementation of new packaging solutions—managing production and transit trials—to ensure fitness for purpose and optimisation for manufacturing.
* Packaging Improvement & Cost Savings: Identify and deliver improvements to existing packaging formats that enhance performance, reduce cost, or improve customer experience. Proactively propose new technologies and materials that deliver value and competitive advantage.
* Project & Programme Delivery: Plan, manage, and deliver packaging projects in collaboration with the Packaging Development Manager and cross‑functional teams (NPD, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Marketing), ensuring timelines and stakeholder expectations are met.
* Supplier Management: Lead supplier identification, evaluation, and ongoing relationship management to ensure high performance, compliance, and alignment with apetito’s sustainability and quality standards.
* Procurement Process & Contracting: Oversee the preparation and control of packaging‑related procurement documents and tenders, including contracts, specifications, and supplier agreements.
* Cost & Market Analysis: Monitor market trends in packaging materials and manufacturing to identify cost‑saving opportunities, optimise spend, and negotiate favourable commercial terms with suppliers.
* Sustainability & Compliance: Support apetito’s sustainability targets by sourcing environmentally responsible packaging solutions and ensuring all packaging complies with relevant legislation, BRC standards, and internal policies.
* Industry & Trend Awareness: Stay informed of emerging packaging trends, technologies, and regulations to drive innovation and maintain apetito’s position as a leader in sustainable food packaging.
About you
Essential
* 2:1 degree within the last two years.
* Interest in working in packaging within a food manufacturing environment.
* Ability to build relationships with a diverse team of people.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and good IT skills.
* Able to interpret data confidently.
* Good communication and interpersonal skills (written and verbal).
* Presentation skills.
* Valid UK driving licence.
Desirable
* Degree in Engineering, Product Design Technology, Manufacturing, or Food Technology.
* Previous experience in a food or packaging‑related role.
Personal Qualities
* Creative problem solver.
* Thirst for continuous improvement.
* Inquisitive mindset.
* Detail orientated.
* A team player, able to work in a high‑performing, fast‑paced environment.
This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the skilled worker route as it does not meet the minimum requirements set out under the UK Immigration Rules.
Company Benefits
* Competitive salary – accredited Living Wage employer.
* 25 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays.
* Option to purchase up to 5 additional days holiday per year.
* Discretionary annual bonus scheme.
* Pension scheme – employer matched contributions up to 4%.
* Life assurance scheme worth at least 1× annual salary.
* Subsidised canteen.
* Free parking.
* Free turkey or voucher at Christmas.
* Access to employee benefits including Perkbox with salary sacrifice options and retail discounts.
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