At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage supplier relationships and develop procurement plans for fresh produce.
- Company: IPL Normanton, a dynamic commercial team focused on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of leave, discounts, health support, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the fresh produce market while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience as a buyer or junior buyer; fresh produce background is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
About the Role
Join Our Dynamic Commercial Team at IPL Normanton! We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for a Specialist – Buyer to become a vital part of our onsite Commercial Team at IPL.
Position Details
- Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm
- Location: IPL Normanton, site based role
- Contract Type: Permanent
Key Responsibilities
- Have an understanding of the current market conditions.
- Work with senior commercial managerial teams to develop and refine procurement plans to deliver margin, quality and availability to ASDA customers.
- Manage supplier relationships to ensure availability, quality and financial plan commitments are met.
- Provide new and improved varieties and products within the category scope to exceed customer expectations while remaining cost‑effective and competitive.
- Maintain all procurement in line with GSCOP processes.
- Liaise with procurement advisors to support stock control and keep internal and external operations teams aware of volumes and risks to deliver the lowest cost supply route.
Qualifications
- Experience as a buyer or a junior buyer looking for career advancement; background in Fresh Produce or FMCG is advantageous.
- Demonstrated cost‑saving procurement solutions implemented in previous roles.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and strong interpersonal, relationship‑building and networking ability.
- Proficiency with a wide range of buying tools, including sustainable sourcing approaches.
- Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple complex and long‑lead projects.
Benefits
- 15% Asda In‑store Discount.
- 33 days of paid annual leave including 8 bank holidays.
- Enhanced pension scheme.
- Life Assurance of 4× annual base salary.
- Help@hand free health and wellbeing support, including unlimited video consultations with a GP, physiotherapy and mental health support.
- Support from Grocery Aid for emotional, practical and financial services.
- Electric Vehicle Scheme.
- 30% discount on selected Asda Mobile bundles for qualifying colleagues and a family member.
- Discounted self‑pay BUPA health assessments for you and your household.
- Up to 10% discount on Asda Pet Insurance.
- Free, no‑obligation mortgage and protection advice through the Mortgage Advice Bureau.
- Exclusive foreign‑exchange rates via Asda Money.
- Ride‑to‑work scheme with savings on bikes, clothing and equipment.
- Access to the Care Concierge resource for insurance and health support.
- Additional benefits such as private healthcare, car allowances and long‑term incentive schemes, depending on the job band.
Equal Opportunity Statement
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 strive to make IPL, Forza and Kober a place where everyone can enjoy a successful career and have systems in place to support all our colleagues.
Buyer - Fresh Produce employer: Kober Ltd
At IPL Normanton, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and inclusivity while fostering a dynamic work culture. As a Buyer in our Commercial Team, you'll benefit from a comprehensive package including generous annual leave, enhanced pension schemes, and access to health and wellbeing support, all within a collaborative environment that encourages professional growth and development. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the fresh produce sector while enjoying unique perks like discounts and a supportive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer - Fresh Produce
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its market position. Understand their products and values, especially in fresh produce. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a buyer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage supplier relationships effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer - Fresh Produce
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and what we're looking for. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and qualifications that match your experience.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! We want to see how your skills and experiences align with the Buyer role. Use specific examples from your past that showcase your expertise in fresh produce or FMCG.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your written application reflects that. Keep it clear, concise, and professional, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kober Ltd
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, brush up on current market conditions in the fresh produce sector. Being able to discuss trends and challenges shows 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 align with the company's goals.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, especially when discussing past experiences.
✨Demonstrate Cost-Saving Initiatives
Be ready to discuss any cost-saving procurement solutions you've implemented in previous roles. This not only shows your expertise but also aligns with the company's focus on delivering margin and quality to customers.
