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- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and build strong supplier relationships in the fresh produce sector.
- Company: APS, a pioneer in British tomato production with over 70 years of innovation.
- Benefits: Career development, pension scheme, life assurance, and free onsite parking.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and make impactful decisions in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience, strong negotiation skills, and excellent communication abilities.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a supportive workplace culture.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 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 employer: APS Produce Group
Contact Detail:
APS Produce Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and join online forums. Building relationships can open doors that a CV alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching APS and the fresh produce sector. Know their values and recent developments so you can show how you align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills in interviews. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven value in previous roles.
✨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 joining our team at APS.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
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 Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve achieved! Use specific examples of how you’ve improved supplier relationships or implemented successful procurement strategies. Numbers and results speak volumes!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re passionate about fresh produce and how you can contribute to our team. Make it personal and engaging—let your personality come through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at APS!
How to prepare for a job interview at APS Produce Group
✨Know Your Produce
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of fresh produce, especially tomatoes. Understand the latest trends in the market and be ready to discuss how you can leverage this knowledge in procurement strategies.
✨Supplier Relationships Matter
Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully built and maintained supplier relationships in the past. Highlight your negotiation skills and any specific instances where you secured better value or quality for your previous employers.
✨Data is Key
Since advanced Excel skills are a must, come equipped with examples of how you've used data analysis to inform buying decisions. Discuss any KPIs you've tracked and how they influenced your procurement strategies.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of scenarios where you've identified supply chain vulnerabilities and how you addressed them. Be ready to discuss your proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement, as this aligns with the company's values.
