At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and build strong supplier relationships in fresh produce.
- Company: APS, a pioneer in British tomato production with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Career growth, pension scheme, life assurance, and free onsite parking.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team where your decisions impact quality and availability of fresh produce.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience, strong negotiation skills, and excellent communication abilities.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of diversity and inclusion while thriving in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
APS provides high-quality tomatoes to the UK’s leading retailers, consistently introducing new varieties and sustainable methods. For more than 70 years, the company has been a pioneer in British tomato production, blending its rich heritage with cutting-edge technology. APS is committed to delivering exceptional produce while supporting employees' growth and fostering a vibrant, innovation-driven workplace.
We are currently looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Buyer to join our fresh produce procurement team and play a vital role in maintaining supplier relationships, supporting organisational objectives through strategic procurement practices and leading a small high-performing team.
What You’ll Be Doing- Identify, evaluate, and select high‑quality suppliers across the fresh produce sector
- Develop and implement category procurement strategies
- Monitor market and industry trends to inform buying decisions
- Align purchasing plans with business goals, budgets, and operational needs
- Foster collaboration with Operations, Finance, Quality, and wider teams
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Track and report on procurement KPIs
- Analyse supplier performance, demand patterns, and purchasing data
- Use insights to support decision‑making and future planning
- Identify supply chain vulnerabilities and develop mitigation plans
- Ensure business continuity through alternative sourcing strategies
- Maintain compliance with company policies and industry standards
- Build, maintain, and enhance strong supplier relationships
- Negotiate effectively to ensure the best value, quality, and service
- Proven experience in procurement — ideally within FMCG or fresh produce
- Strong supplier management and negotiation skills
- Exceptional organisation, attention to detail, and commercial acumen
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
- SAP experience is a bonus—but training is available
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment
- A proactive, problem‑solving mindset and drive for continuous improvement
If you’re an experienced commercial buyer with a passion for fresh produce and a talent for building strong supplier partnerships and thrive in a fast‑paced environment where every decision shapes availability, quality, and value then we would love to hear from you! Click apply and submit an up to date CV.
Why Work for APS Produce?- Career Development and Growth Opportunities
- Company Pension Scheme
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Free Onsite Parking
At APS we are committed to fostering equality, diversity and inclusion within our workforce. Our aim is to ensure that our team reflects the diverse communities and customers we serve, and that everyone feels valued and respected. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.
Senior Buyer in England employer: APS Produce Group
Contact Detail:
APS Produce Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and join online forums. The more people you know in the fresh produce sector, the better your chances of landing that Senior Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies showcasing your procurement successes. When you get that interview, let us see how you've tackled supplier relationships and negotiations in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on market trends! Keep an eye on the latest developments in the fresh produce industry. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also help you align with APS's goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of the APS team and contributing to our innovative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Buyer role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in FMCG or fresh produce, and showcase your supplier management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to emphasise your advanced Microsoft Excel skills and any experience with SAP. If you’ve got a knack for data analysis and reporting, let us know! This is key for the role, so make it stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about fresh produce and how you can contribute to our team. We love seeing enthusiasm and a proactive mindset, so let that personality come through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy—just click apply and submit your updated CV!
How to prepare for a job interview at APS Produce Group
✨Know Your Produce
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fresh produce, especially tomatoes! Understand the latest trends in the market and be ready to discuss how they could impact procurement strategies. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Supplier Relationships Matter
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your negotiation skills and ability to foster collaboration, which is key for the Senior Buyer role.
✨Data-Driven Decisions
Since advanced Excel skills are a must, be ready to talk about how you've used data analysis in your previous roles. Bring examples of KPIs you've tracked or reports you've created that influenced buying decisions. This will highlight your analytical mindset and attention to detail.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of a time when you identified a supply chain vulnerability and how you addressed it. Be prepared to discuss your proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement. This aligns perfectly with APS's commitment to operational excellence and innovation.