Food Buyer
London - Hybrid 3 days/week in the office
Salary - £40,000 - £45,000
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly capable and results-driven Buyer to manage the sourcing, negotiation, and procurement of food products, ingredients, and packaging materials—both locally and internationally. The role includes overseeing the full import process, ensuring regulatory compliance, and securing a cost-effective, reliable supply chain. Success in this position requires strong supplier management, commercial negotiation skills, and close collaboration with the operations team to maintain seamless import and procurement activities.
Key Responsibilities
1. Procurement & Sourcing
* Identify and assess suppliers of finished goods, raw materials, and packaging in alignment with the company’s quality and sustainability standards.
* Request, evaluate, and negotiate competitive quotations to secure favourable pricing and terms.
* Develop and execute category sourcing strategies for allocated product lines.
* Track market trends, commodity movements, and supplier performance to guide purchasing decisions.
2. Supplier Relationship Management
* Build and sustain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure dependable supply and continuous improvement.
* Conduct regular evaluations of supplier performance, focusing on quality, cost efficiency, and delivery reliability.
3. Stock Control & Team Support
* Provide support and guidance to two stock controllers.
* Oversee stock management processes to ensure accurate data across all ERP and warehouse systems.
* Review daily stock reports, investigate discrepancies, and ensure timely corrective actions.
* Work closely with Planning and Production teams to maintain optimal inventory levels, preventing stockouts or excess stock.
* Promote a culture of accountability, efficiency, and collaboration within the stock control function.
4. Import Management
* Manage all aspects of the import process, including purchase orders, shipping coordination, customs documentation, and clearance.
* Support Stock Controllers in liaising with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and suppliers to ensure timely and compliant imports.
* Oversee preparation and validation of import documents (invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, health certificates, etc.).
* Ensure adherence to food safety, customs, and import regulations across relevant markets.
* Review and optimize import-related costs such as freight, duties, and insurance.
5. Cost & Process Control
* Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
* Ensure all procurement activities align with company policies and ethical standards.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
* 1–3 years’ experience in procurement or buying within the FMCG or food manufacturing industry.
* Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, Dynamics).
Key Competencies
* Strong commercial acumen and cost awareness.
* Excellent communication, organizational, and stakeholder-management skills.
* Strong negotiation and analytical capabilities.
* High attention to detail and a data-driven mindset.
* Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
* Proactive team player with strong problem-solving skills.
* Commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices.