At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and build strong relationships with growers and retailers.
- Company: Join AMFRESH, a global leader in fresh food innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, international travel opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and innovative company.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fresh produce while driving sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong procurement experience in FMCG and excellent stakeholder management skills.
We are looking for a Head of Procurement to lead and develop our fresh produce supply base across AMFRESH UK, supporting strong commercial performance, resilient supply, and long-term grower partnerships. Based at our Alconbury site, this is a senior role working closely with growers, retailers, customer teams, Finance and senior stakeholders. You will shape sourcing strategies, strengthen supplier relationships, and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality fresh produce to leading UK retailers.
You will lead supplier governance, seasonal programme delivery, sourcing strategy, commercial risk management and continuous improvement across procurement processes. The role will also take responsibility for the day‑to‑day management and strategic development of key product areas including grapes, citrus and melons, working across international sourcing regions. This role will involve regular grower and retailer engagement, including supplier reviews, source visits, trade events and international travel for approximately 4 to 6 weeks per year.
About You
You will have strong procurement experience within FMCG, fresh produce or food supply, with the commercial judgement and stakeholder confidence to operate at a senior level. We are looking for someone who can build strong relationships with growers, suppliers, retailers and internal teams, while balancing strategic sourcing decisions with day‑to‑day supply and programme delivery. You will bring:
- Significant procurement experience within FMCG, ideally fresh produce or food
- Strong understanding of UK retailer supply chains and supplier management
- Commercial confidence across sourcing, trading terms, claims and risk
- Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills
- Experience leading people, change and continuous improvement
- A full UK driving licence and ability to travel internationally when required
- Experience with international sourcing, packaging, supply chain innovation or varietal development would be beneficial.
About Us
AMFRESH is a global leader in fresh food innovation, combining cutting‑edge agriscience, world‑class farming and integrated supply chain expertise to bring exceptional fresh produce to consumers around the world. Operating across more than 25 countries with over 12,000 employees, AMFRESH partners with leading retailers and growers to shape the future of fresh food through sustainability, innovation and consumer‑led thinking. From pioneering new fruit varieties to delivering field‑to‑shelf solutions at scale, AMFRESH is driven by a passion for quality, collaboration and creating healthier, more sustainable food systems for the future.
Head of Procurement in Alconbury employer: AM FRESH Group
AMFRESH is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Alconbury site where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and international engagement, ensuring that our team members are equipped to lead in the fresh produce sector. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to sustainability and quality, while enjoying a supportive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement in Alconbury
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like AM FRESH Group.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Procurement in Alconbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to AM FRESH Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to AM FRESH Group. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like AM FRESH Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at AM FRESH Group
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at AM FRESH Group!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at AM FRESH Group. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into AM FRESH Group's culture.
