At a Glance
- Tasks: Purchase and import Japanese food products while managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Dynamic UK-based company specialising in Japanese food imports.
- 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 food culture.
- Qualifications: Strong Japanese language skills and experience in food purchasing.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 50000 £ per year.
Company Overview: A UK‑based food‑related company specialising 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
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 organisation 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
As a leading UK-based food company specialising in Japanese products, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and strong supplier relationships. Our hybrid work model promotes a balanced work-life environment, while our focus on employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities for growth within the organisation. Join us in a dynamic and culturally rich setting where your language skills and industry expertise will be valued and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer – Japanese Food Products
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the food industry, especially those with connections to Japanese suppliers. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to make those valuable contacts.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Japanese! Since you'll be negotiating with suppliers in Japanese, practice your language skills. Consider taking a short course or using language apps to get comfortable with business jargon.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your hands-on purchasing experience and any successful deals you've closed. Real-life examples can make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in our company. Tailor your approach to show how your skills align with our focus on Japanese food products.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer – Japanese Food Products
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Language Skills:Since this role requires strong Japanese language skills, make sure to highlight your proficiency in both Japanese and English. Use specific examples of how you've used these skills in past roles to impress us!
Tailor Your Experience:We want to see how your purchasing experience aligns with the food industry, especially with Japanese suppliers. Be specific about your hands-on experience importing food products and managing supplier relationships.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your relevant experience and skills.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at JAC Recruitment
✨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 commitment and readiness to engage with Japanese suppliers.
✨Know Your Products Inside Out
Research the specific Japanese food products that the company imports and distributes. Understanding the nuances of these products will not only impress your interviewers but also help you discuss how you can contribute to their purchasing strategy effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated with suppliers or managed relationships. Highlighting your hands-on purchasing experience will be crucial, so think of specific instances where you achieved favourable terms or resolved issues.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Import Operations
Since the role involves managing import operations, brush up on the logistics and regulations related to importing food products into the UK. Being able to discuss lead times, commercial terms, and compliance with food safety standards will show that you're well-prepared for the responsibilities of the role.
