At a Glance
- Tasks: Purchase and import Japanese food products while managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Dynamic UK-based company specialising in Japanese food distribution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Flexible start date and welcoming environment for visa holders.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and immerse yourself in Japanese culture through food.
- Qualifications: Must speak Japanese and have purchasing experience in the food industry.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 50000 € per year.
Company Overview
A UK-based food-related company. The company specializes in the import, wholesale and distribution of food products, with a strong focus on Japanese foods. It has an established track record of working with Japanese food manufacturers and trading companies, supplying products to the UK and wider European markets. A key characteristic of the business is its high volume of trade with Japan, operating with a strong emphasis on Japanese business practices and quality standards.
Role Overview
You will be responsible for purchasing and importing food products, primarily from Japanese food manufacturers and trading companies. As many Japan-based suppliers do not operate in English, this role requires strong Japanese language skills alongside hands-on purchasing experience within the food industry. In addition to managing existing supplier relationships, you will work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure stable supply, consistent quality, and competitive pricing.
Key Responsibilities
- Purchasing and order management with Japanese food manufacturers and trading companies
- Coordination of import operations from Japan to the UK (lead times, quantities, commercial terms, etc.)
- Demand forecasting and order planning in collaboration with the Sales team
- Supplier negotiation and relationship management conducted in Japanese
- Management of import schedules, container shipments and delivery status
- Collaboration with Technical and Quality teams to ensure compliance with regulations and food safety standards
- Registration and maintenance of product and transaction data in the SAP system
- Handling issues related to quality, delivery, documentation and contributing to process improvements
The scope of responsibilities may be adjusted flexibly depending on experience and skill level.
Required Skills & Experience
Must Have
- Practical purchasing experience within the food industry, or closely related experience
- Experience working with suppliers in Japanese
- Hands-on experience importing food products into the EU and/or the UK
Nice to Have
- Experience importing food products from Japan
- Experience working with Japanese companies or Japanese suppliers
- Experience in a small to mid-sized organization with broad responsibilities
- Background with competitor companies in the same sector
Language Requirements
- Japanese: Business level (Able to negotiate with Japanese suppliers, manage adjustments and handle day-to-day business communication)
- English: Business level (Able to operate effectively in an English-speaking working environment, including meetings and documentation)
Location & Work Style
- Location: Greater London area, UK
- Work style: Hybrid – office attendance twice a week (Tuesday and Thursday); full office attendance may be required during the initial onboarding period; additional office attendance may be required when suppliers visit. Car commuting available.
Employment Type & Salary
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Salary: £35,000 – £50,000 per annum. Candidates with strong, directly relevant industry experience may be considered at £50,000+.
Visa / Work Authorisation
YMS and PSW visa holders are welcome to apply. Visa sponsorship may be considered.
Recruitment Notes
Ideal start date: Early to mid-June (flexible). Interview process: Two stages (online and/or in-person, negotiable). Please note that only candidates who pass the document screening stage will be contacted.
Buyer – Japanese Food Products employer: JAC Recruitment (UK) Ltd.
As a leading UK-based food importer specialising in Japanese products, our company offers a dynamic work environment that values quality and strong supplier relationships. With a hybrid work model and a focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development while fostering a collaborative culture that embraces Japanese business practices. Join us in Greater London to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional food products to the UK and European markets.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer – Japanese Food Products
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with people in the food industry, especially those who have experience with Japanese suppliers. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to make those valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Japanese language skills! Since you'll be negotiating with suppliers in Japanese, practice your business vocabulary and phrases. It’ll show your commitment and help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. Understand their products and market position. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for passionate individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer – Japanese Food Products
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your practical purchasing experience in the food industry. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, especially if you've worked with Japanese suppliers or imported food products before.
Language Skills Matter:Since this role requires strong Japanese language skills, don’t forget to mention your proficiency level. We’re looking for someone who can negotiate and communicate effectively with our Japanese partners, so let us know how you’ve used your language skills in a professional setting.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to tailor your application to our company and the specific role. We love seeing candidates who understand our focus on Japanese food products and can demonstrate their passion for the industry. Make it personal!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at JAC Recruitment (UK) Ltd.
✨Brush Up on Your Japanese
Since this role requires strong Japanese language skills, make sure to practice your business-level Japanese before the interview. Familiarise yourself with common phrases used in negotiations and supplier communications, as this will show your potential employer that you’re ready to engage effectively with Japanese suppliers.
✨Know Your Products
Dive deep into the world of Japanese food products. Research popular items, trends in the market, and key suppliers. Being able to discuss specific products and their qualities during the interview will demonstrate your passion for the industry and your commitment to understanding the nuances of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your hands-on purchasing experience in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've managed supplier relationships, handled import operations, or navigated challenges in the food industry. This will help the interviewers see how your background aligns with their needs.
✨Understand Japanese Business Practices
Familiarise yourself with Japanese business etiquette and practices. Understanding concepts like 'wa' (harmony) and 'tatemae' (public facade) can give you an edge in the interview. It shows that you respect their culture and are prepared to work within their business framework.
