Head of Procurement - Fresh Produce (12 Month FTC) in Bedford

A senior fresh produce procurement opportunity where the focus is less on negotiating next year's contracts and much more on making sure international grower programmes, relationships and supply performance continue to deliver.

We're supporting a well-established fresh produce importer and supplier with the appointment of a Head of Procurement to provide 12 months' maternity cover. This isn't a position dominated by tenders and contract renewals. Much of the contractual activity for the coming year will already be in place.

Instead, you'll take responsibility for managing the ongoing relationship with an international grower base, ensuring supply programmes and SLAs remain on track and supporting the business in delivering consistently for major UK grocery customers. You'll also lead a small procurement team of three who coordinate the day-to-day administration behind the function, including shipping, claims and related supply activity.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and develop relationships with international growers and suppliers.
• Oversee agreed supply programmes, ensuring performance against SLAs and customer requirements.
• Act as the senior procurement contact when supply, quality or programme issues need resolving.
• Work closely with internal commercial, supply chain and operational teams to maintain continuity of supply.
• Lead and support a team of three responsible for procurement coordination and administration.

What We're Looking For

There are two important requirements for this appointment. You'll need strong fresh produce experience, with direct exposure to international growers and supply programmes. The specific produce category isn't important - experience could come from fruit, vegetables, salads or another relevant fresh category. You'll also need to speak Spanish to a strong professional level. This is essential rather than preferred, as you'll regularly communicate directly with Spanish-speaking growers and suppliers. You'll be comfortable operating at senior level, managing relationships, resolving issues and leading a small team without needing everything to be driven through formal procurement processes.

Why Join?

This is a good opportunity for somebody who enjoys the international and relationship-led side of fresh produce procurement. You'll inherit established contracts and programmes, giving you the opportunity to concentrate on growers, supply performance and maintaining strong customer service rather than spending your first few months renegotiating the commercial framework. There's genuine flexibility around the level of person they appoint, so this could suit an established Head of Procurement or an experienced fresh produce procurement professional ready to take broader ownership for a 12-month period.

If you're interested in learning more, we'd be happy to have a confidential conversation.