Commercial Procurement Manager - Berries

Due to significant growth ambitions within our client’s berry category, we are seeking an experienced Commercial Manager – Procurement (Berries) to lead and develop a high-performing commercial and procurement function. This is a senior appointment offering an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a growing berry category, manage a global supplier portfolio and drive commercial performance across a predominantly retail customer base spanning Europe, the UK and Ireland. With an anticipated first-year cost of goods (COG) of €50–€60 million, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering sustainable growth, strengthening supplier partnerships and ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality berries to meet customer demand. We are looking for a commercially astute and strategically minded individual with extensive experience in the global berry supply chain, strong procurement expertise and a proven track record of managing significant retail-focused sourcing operations. Key Responsibilities Commercial Leadership Lead and manage the berry commercial and procurement team, setting clear objectives and driving a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. Develop and execute the commercial strategy for the berry category in line with the wider business growth plan. Take ownership of category performance, including cost of goods, margins, profitability and commercial risk. Build strong relationships with key retail customers across the UK, Ireland and Europe, ensuring their requirements are consistently met. Identify new commercial opportunities, develop strategic partnerships and support the continued expansion of the berry category. Procurement and Supplier Management Manage and develop a global portfolio of berry suppliers, ensuring competitive sourcing, product quality, availability and reliability of supply. Lead supplier negotiations, commercial agreements and procurement planning to deliver optimal value and sustainable commercial returns. Establish and maintain long-term strategic relationships with growers, producers, exporters and other supply-chain partners. Monitor global berry markets, seasonal availability, pricing trends, crop forecasts and emerging supply risks. Develop effective sourcing strategies to optimise supply across different growing regions and seasons. Ensure suppliers meet agreed standards for quality, food safety, ethical sourcing, traceability and sustainability. Retail Customer and Stakeholder Management Work closely with retail customers to understand their commercial objectives, product specifications, promotional plans and seasonal requirements. Collaborate with internal teams across sales, technical, quality assurance, supply chain, logistics and operations to deliver an integrated category strategy. Lead commercial discussions and resolve complex supplier or customer issues promptly and effectively. Ensure the business maintains high service levels while balancing customer expectations, supplier capability and commercial profitability. Financial and Operational Performance Take responsibility for a substantial category cost base, with an anticipated first-year COG of €50–€60 million. Develop and manage budgets, forecasts and procurement plans, ensuring accurate financial reporting and effective cost control. Identify opportunities to improve procurement efficiency, reduce waste, manage price volatility and enhance margins. Monitor key performance indicators, including procurement savings, gross margin, supplier performance, service levels and product availability. Proactively manage commercial risks associated with seasonality, weather events, crop yields, currency fluctuations and global supply-chain disruption Candidate Requirements Essential Experience Significant experience in a senior commercial, procurement or category management role within the fresh produce industry. Extensive knowledge of the global berry category, including sourcing, growing regions, seasonal supply patterns and market dynamics. An established network of international berry suppliers, growers and producers. Proven experience managing substantial procurement spend and delivering commercial results within a retail-focused environment. Demonstrable success in supplier negotiations, strategic sourcing, margin management and commercial contract management. Experience working with major retail customers across the UK, Ireland and/or Europe. Strong leadership experience, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop a commercial team. Excellent financial and analytical skills, including budgeting, forecasting and cost management. A strong understanding of fresh produce quality standards, food safety, traceability and supply-chain requirements. Personal Attributes Commercially driven, with a strong focus on profitability and sustainable growth. Strategic in outlook, while remaining hands-on and operationally effective. An accomplished negotiator and relationship builder. Confident in making decisions in a fast-moving, seasonal and commercially demanding environment. Highly organised, analytical and solutions-focused. An effective communicator who can influence stakeholders at all levels. Resilient, adaptable and comfortable managing competing commercial priorities. The Package This is a significant senior-level appointment within a growing business, offering the opportunity to shape and lead an expanding berry category with considerable commercial potential. The successful candidate can expect a highly competitive remuneration package, commensurate with their experience, industry relationships and ability to deliver the category’s growth ambitions. The role will be based in the West Midlands, with the possibility of hybrid working