At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global sourcing strategy and manage supplier relationships in fresh produce.
- Company: Join a values-driven, internationally connected business passionate about fresh produce.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, car allowance, bonus potential, and flexible hybrid working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative and innovative environment focused on sustainability.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in sourcing/procurement within the produce sector and strong global network required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, permanent role based in Hertfordshire.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Hertfordshire with flexible hybrid working.
Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 + car allowance and bonus
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Help build a world-class international supply base. We’re looking for a commercially astute Strategic Sourcing Manager to lead a global grower network and drive sourcing strategy across the fresh produce category. This is a globally facing role where you’ll shape supplier relationships, improve supply continuity, and support the delivery of long-term growth plans.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Developing and delivering the global sourcing and procurement strategy.
- Finding, evaluating, and onboarding international growers.
- Building and managing long-term supplier relationships.
- Monitoring supplier performance and identifying areas for investment and support.
- Aligning supply with commercial plans and demand forecasts.
- Negotiating terms that ensure value, quality, and reliable supply.
- Collaborating with internal teams to align sourcing with technical, agronomic, and sustainability standards.
- Providing updates on supply risks, market trends, and global developments.
What We’re Looking For:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in sourcing/procurement within the produce sector.
- A strong global network within fresh produce.
- A skilled communicator and negotiator with proven relationship management skills.
Package & Benefits:
- £55,000 – £65,000 depending on experience
- Car allowance package
- Bonus up to 20%
- Flexible hybrid working
Why Join?
The client is an internationally connected, values-led business with a passion for fresh produce. You’ll join a collaborative, innovative environment where you can make a real impact – both commercially and strategically.
Contact Detail:
Career Wallet Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Sourcing Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the fresh produce sector. Attend industry events, webinars, and trade shows to connect with potential suppliers and other professionals. Building relationships in this field can give you an edge when applying for the Strategic Sourcing Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on market trends and global developments in the fresh produce industry. Subscribe to relevant publications and follow key influencers on social media. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your negotiation strategies and relationship management experiences in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully built long-term supplier relationships or improved supply continuity, as these are crucial skills for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with sustainability standards and practices in sourcing. Being knowledgeable about how to align sourcing strategies with sustainability goals can set you apart from other candidates and show that you understand the broader implications of sourcing in today's market.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Sourcing Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in sourcing and procurement, particularly within the fresh produce sector. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in supplier relationship management and negotiation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your experience with global sourcing strategies and how you can contribute to building a world-class supply base.
Highlight Key Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements from your previous roles. For instance, mention any successful negotiations or improvements in supplier performance that led to cost savings or enhanced quality.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires strong communication and relationship management skills, provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated with internal teams and external suppliers to achieve common goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Wallet
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of the fresh produce sector. Discuss current market trends, challenges, and opportunities that you’ve identified. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the role but also passionate about the industry.
✨Highlight Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Be ready to discuss how you achieved value and quality in your previous roles. This is crucial for a Strategic Sourcing Manager, so make it a focal point in your interview.
✨Emphasise Relationship Management
Talk about your experience in building and maintaining long-term supplier relationships. Share specific instances where your relationship management skills have led to improved supply continuity or enhanced collaboration.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s values and mission. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding sustainability and innovation in sourcing. This connection can set you apart from other candidates.