Buyer (Fresh Produce)
Location: Sittingbourne area - Site-based
Salary: £35,000 - £42,000 + bonus (up to 12.5%) + strong benefits
Hours: Monday-Friday, 08:30-17:00 (can be slightly flexible on start)
Ready to take ownership of a high-value fresh produce category supplying major UK retailers?
About the Role
We're recruiting a Buyer to join a high-performing commercial team within a well-established business. This is a site-based role with full category responsibility, working closely with suppliers and major UK retail customers to deliver margin, availability, and quality across fresh produce lines.
You'll operate within a fast-paced, commercially driven environment, managing around 40 suppliers and contributing directly to a category worth c.£55m. Travel to UK and overseas suppliers (up to 6 trips per year) will form part of the role.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and refine procurement plans to deliver margin, quality, and availability.
Manage supplier relationships, ensuring financial and service commitments are met.
Monitor market conditions and proactively manage cost and supply risk.
Identify new and improved varieties within your category scope.
Maintain compliance with GSCOP requirements and procurement governance.
Work closely with procurement advisors and operations to manage stock and communicate risks.
Deliver cost-saving initiatives and support commercial growth objectives.
What You'll Bring
Proven buying experience within Fresh Produce or FMCG (essential).
Evidence of delivering measurable margin or cost-saving impact.
Strong supplier management and negotiation capability.
Understanding of UK retail multiples and commercial levers.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Detail-oriented, resilient, and commercially sharp.
What's in it for You?
You'll join a collaborative, growth-focused business offering strong career development within a larger business.
Benefits include:
Up to 12.5% bonus
33 days annual leave
Enhanced pension (up to 7.5%)
Private medical
EV scheme, wellbeing support, and additional benefits
Interested?
If you're a commercially confident fresh produce buyer looking for ownership, retail exposure, and real margin responsibility - apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion