Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne

Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne

Sittingbourne Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team to manage fresh produce procurement and supplier relationships.
  • Company: Dynamic company focused on teamwork and professional development.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, 15% Asda discount, and comprehensive health support.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the fresh produce market while growing your career.
  • Qualifications: Experience in fresh produce buying and strong communication skills required.
  • Other info: Inclusive culture that values diversity and supports career growth.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Join Our Dynamic IPL! We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for a Specialist – Buyer to become a vital part of our onsite Commercial Team at IPL. If you are passionate and eager to contribute to a dynamic team, this role is perfect for you!

Position Details

  • Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm
  • Location: IPL Normanton OR IPL Sittingbourne, site based role
  • Contract Type: Permanent

Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Have an understanding of the current market conditions.
  • Working with the senior commercial managerial teams, you will develop and refine the current procurement plans to deliver the required margin, quality and availability to our ASDA customers.
  • Work with and successfully manage supplier relationships ensuring focus on availability, quality and financial plan commitments are met.
  • Provide both new and improved varieties and products within the category scope to exceed the expectations of our customers whilst ensuring we are cost effective & competitive within the market.
  • Maintain all procurement satisfies GSCOP processes.
  • Liaise with our procurement advisors to support the control of stock and ensure our internal and external operations teams are aware of volumes and potential risks to enable them to deliver the lowest cost supply route to market.

What are we looking for?

  • An experienced, driven buyer with a strong background in Fresh Produce or FMCG; prior exposure to the stone fruit category would be a valuable advantage.
  • Demonstrate cost saving procurement solutions implemented in previous roles.
  • As an exceptional communicator - both verbally and written, you will be able to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, relationship building and networking ability.
  • You will have previously used a wide range of buying tools, including a sustainable sourcing approach.
  • You will have fantastic attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple complex and long lead time projects.

What’s in it for you?

At IPL, Forza, and Kober, we are dynamic businesses, dedicated to fostering the development of our colleagues and creating an exceptional work environment. We believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration to drive our success. To continue our growth, we are seeking individuals who embody our values, culture, and commitment.

In return, we offer opportunities for professional development, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • 15% Asda In-store Discount
  • Paid Annual Leave Allowance – 33 days per annum
  • Enhanced pension scheme
  • Life Assurance - All our colleagues benefit from life assurance of 4 x their annual base salary
  • Help@hand - Free, direct access to health and wellbeing support service, including unlimited video consultations with a UK-based GP 24/7, physiotherapy, and mental health support
  • Grocery Aid - We’ve partnered with Grocery Aid to provide our colleagues and their families with a wide range of emotional, practical, and financial support services
  • Electric Vehicle Scheme
  • Asda Mobile Discount - 30% off a wide range of Asda Mobile bundles and add-ons for our colleagues and one of their family members
  • Discounted health assessments - We have exclusively negotiated rates on Self-Pay BUPA Health Assessments for you and members of your household
  • Asda Pet Insurance discount – Up to 10% Discount
  • Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) - MAB can provide fee-free*, no-obligation mortgage and protection advice
  • Exclusive Exchange Rates via Asda Money - our colleagues can get a better exchange rate for their travel money when buying currency through Asda Travel Money (TravelEx)
  • Ride-to-work scheme - We work with Evans to provide our colleagues with great savings across their range of bikes, clothing, and equipment
  • Care Concierge - The Care Experts. Talk to us - we are listening - Legal & General’s Care Concierge resource

Plus, lots more! Depending on job band, other fantastic benefits are also available including private healthcare, car allowances, and long-term incentive schemes.

Like what you’ve read? Then do your research, update your CV, and once you’re ready, hit the apply button. Don’t delay, apply today!

About Us

Our purpose here at IPL, Forza & Kober is simple, we are one team who creates exceptional value for our customers and our mission is to support Asda on their journey to becoming #2 in the marketplace.

Through our people we live and breathe our values and we play to our strengths, but we also support each other’s development. We are a community of passionate individuals who possess a wide variety of skills and expertise, who work collectively to form a high performing team and a company to be proud of.

We are committed to a fully inclusive business that is representative of our customers, locations and the communities we serve. We recognise the value in diversity and welcome applications from all candidates regardless of sex, age, race, religion, gender or sexual identity and socio-economic background. We are committed to making IPL, Forza and Kober a place where everyone can enjoy a successful career and have systems in place to support all our colleagues. We are seeking applications from candidates who share our values, culture and celebrate diversity in all its forms.

Our culture is our people and our people are our culture!

Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne employer: IPL International Procurement and Logistics

At IPL, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth. Our dynamic work environment in Normanton or Sittingbourne offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including a generous annual leave allowance and health support services, and a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering outstanding value to our customers while enjoying numerous employee perks and development opportunities.
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Contact Detail:

IPL International Procurement and Logistics Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company inside out! Research IPL, Forza, and Kober, and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to buying and procurement. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the role. We want to hear your success stories!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!

We think you need these skills to ace Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne

Market Analysis
Supplier Relationship Management
Procurement Planning
Cost Saving Solutions
Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Networking Ability
Attention to Detail
Project Management
Sustainable Sourcing
FMCG Knowledge
Fresh Produce Expertise
Risk Management
Stock Control

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the company. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit right in with our team!

Show Off Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on what makes you a great fit for the Fresh Produce Buyer role. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your skills in procurement and supplier management. We love seeing how you've made an impact!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the good stuff!

Apply Through Our Website: Once you’ve polished your CV and cover letter, head over to our website to submit your application. It’s the best way to ensure it lands in the right hands. Don’t wait too long – we can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at IPL International Procurement and Logistics

✨Know Your Market

Before the interview, brush up on current market conditions in the fresh produce sector. Being able to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities will show your potential employer that you're not just a buyer, but a knowledgeable partner who understands the landscape.

✨Showcase Your Supplier Management Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships in the past. Highlight specific instances where you ensured quality and availability while meeting financial commitments. This will demonstrate your ability to maintain strong partnerships, which is crucial for the role.

✨Communicate Clearly

As an exceptional communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships and networks in previous roles. Good communication is key, so think about how you can convey your ideas effectively during the interview.

✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail

Be prepared to discuss how you've managed complex projects with long lead times. Share specific examples that showcase your attention to detail and organisational skills. This will reassure the interviewers that you can handle the demands of the role and deliver results.

Fresh Produce Buyer in Sittingbourne
IPL International Procurement and Logistics
Location: Sittingbourne

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