Sourcing Specialist

We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated Sourcing Specialist to join our team in the Food and Beverage sector. The successful candidate will identify, evaluate, and source high-quality food and beverage products (with focus on glass) from European suppliers and international markets. This role requires a keen eye for quality, cost optimization, and strong supplier management skills, ensuring the company maintains its commitment to quality while remaining competitive.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Identify, assess, and select reliable suppliers or vendors who meet the company’s requirements for quality, cost, reliability, and delivery time.
• Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with suppliers to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers, always aiming to achieve the best possible pricing while maintaining product quality.
• Continuously monitor and research the market for new products, suppliers, industry trends, and pricing fluctuations.
• Ensure that all products sourced meet the required quality standards and comply with industry regulations (e.g., food safety standards, environmental guidelines).
• Oversee the procurement process from order placement to delivery, ensuring that materials and products are delivered on time and in the correct quantities.
• Regularly evaluate supplier performance based on quality, on-time delivery, and service levels.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to supply chain disruptions, quality issues, or financial instability among suppliers.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of supplier agreements, contracts, purchase orders, and compliance documentation.
• Collaborate with other departments such as product development, logistics, marketing, and operations to align sourcing strategies with company objectives.
• Source products in a way that aligns with the company’s sustainability goals and ethical standards, ensuring suppliers follow environmental and social responsibility practices.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs while maintaining quality and service levels, such as by consolidating suppliers or finding alternative materials.
• Lead the negotiation process for contracts, ensuring that all terms are clearly defined and protect the company’s interests.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE – REQUIRED FOR THE ROLE:

• Demonstrated experience (3+ Years) in procurement or sourcing, ideally within a related industry (e.g., food and beverage, packaging, or manufacturing), showcasing a solid understanding of procurement processes, supplier management, and cost optimization strategies.
• Familiarity with packaging materials, packaging suppliers, and packaging processes. This includes understanding packaging trends, regulations, and best practices, especially if sourcing packaging for food or beverage products.
• Strong investigative skills, with the ability to research new suppliers, trends, and market conditions. Able to conduct thorough market analyses and identify potential risks or opportunities in the supply chain.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs such as Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, etc.) for tracking data, preparing reports, and communicating with teams.
• Experience with Sage is advantageous, especially for managing procurement records, invoices, and supplier data.
• Familiarity with "Green Screen" systems is advantageous but not essential. The ability to quickly learn new systems and software will be crucial.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail, especially when managing procurement data, purchase orders, and supplier documentation.
• Enthusiastic, motivated, and proactive attitude, with the drive to continually improve sourcing processes and contribute positively to the team.

BENEFITS:

• Salary to be discussed at interview stage.
• Full Time, permanent.
• Perk Box Membership.
• Impro-share Scheme.
• Company contributing Pension Scheme.
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays.