At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the fresh produce section, managing quality and supply chain from farm to shelf.
- Company: Join Lidl, a dynamic retailer known for its collaborative culture and commitment to quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, 10% in-store discount, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with access to an on-site gym and restaurant.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fresh produce quality and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fresh produce buying and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 77000 - 88000 £ per year.
£77,000 - £88,000 | 35 days’ holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme
Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table - but we also have a whole lot in common. We’re curious, collaborative, and ready to make a tangible impact on where we work. Just like you.
Our award‑winning Buying Department is looking for an experienced Fresh Produce Buying Manager to join the team. You’ll be the architect of our market‑leading Fresh Produce section, influencing everything from the vibrant colour of our tomatoes to the crispness of our seasonal greens. You’ll play a major role in shaping our fresh produce range—deciding which seasonal fruits and vegetables are in our stores. From field‑to‑fork supply‑chain management and quality control to global contract negotiations, you will drive our market‑leading position in one of the most high‑profile categories in retail.
You’ll excel in a dynamic, high‑pressure environment where 'freshness' isn’t just a buzzword—it's a deadline. You have a true enthusiasm for food retail and a keen eye for quality. You are self‑driven, commercially perceptive, and possess the drive to negotiate the best deals for our customers. Our network of over 1,000+ stores relies on your expertise as a Fresh Produce Buying Manager to ensure that when our doors open at 8:00 AM, the best products in the business are ready and waiting, making our customers fans and demonstrating that we are more to value.
If you have a proactive mindset and a desire to succeed in a fast‑moving, award‑winning retailer, we want to hear from you.
At Lidl, we offer a hybrid working model to give you the best of both worlds. Spend three days or more in our state‑of‑the‑art office, where you can enjoy an on‑site gym, restaurant, and more of the perks you deserve. And with up to two days at home, you’ll find the work/life balance you need to thrive.
What you’ll do
- Demonstrate the confidence to manage multi‑million pound investments across global commodity and fresh produce markets
- Develop strategic solutions for complex supply chain hurdles, managing everything from harvest fluctuations to logistics, while taking full ownership as the lead decision‑maker for your categories
- Take total accountability for the journey of every item of fruit and vegetable, spanning from the farm gate to the shelf edge
- Lead rigorous quality inspections and sensory assessments to perfect the appearance and texture
- Negotiate with global growers and suppliers, and give the final seal of approval on packaging and presentation
- Oversee the critical path from initial product concept—whether it’s a new seasonal variety or a sustainably grown option—to its arrival in our depots
- Ensure that every batch meets our strict quality benchmarks and lands in our Regional Distribution Centres exactly when needed to stock our 1,000+ stores
- Navigate complex negotiations and build a world‑class supplier network
- Demonstrate confidence when presenting to Buying Directors and Board Directors
- Have an analytical eye to master the science of fresh produce
- Collaborate with your fellow buyers and colleagues in other departments, but have the initiative to drive your own work independently
What you’ll need
- A background as a Fresh Produce Buyer or a similar commercial role within food retail will be highly advantageous
- Demonstrated success leading complex negotiations with major suppliers, alongside a strong grasp of how yield and pricing are affected by seasonality, weather, and shifting commodity costs
- Understand the technicalities of fresh produce production—from varietal differences and growing conditions to post‑harvest handling and shelf life—and how they translate to customer satisfaction.
- Known for being pragmatic, logical, and exceptionally quick‑thinking
- You exude presence, demonstrate confidence, and stand firmly behind your ideas
- Possession of a full UK driving licence
- Already live - or happy to relocate - within a one‑hour commute of Lidl GB Head Office, Tolworth
- German language skills desirable but not essential
What you’ll receive
- 35 days holiday (pro rata)
- 10% in‑store discount
- Enhanced family leave
- Pension scheme
- Plus, more of the perks you deserve
- Includes 10% non‑contractual London Weighting allowance
We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
If you’re ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now.
Buying Manager Fresh Produce employer: Lidl GB
Lidl is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and dynamic work culture, perfect for those looking to make a tangible impact in the retail sector. With a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and a hybrid working model that includes access to state-of-the-art facilities, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company values diversity and inclusion, offering ample opportunities for growth and development within its award-winning Buying Department, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to advance their careers in fresh produce management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Manager Fresh Produce
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with Lidl employees on LinkedIn. You never know who might give you a heads-up about an opportunity or refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Lidl’s fresh produce strategies and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just passionate about food retail but also clued up on what makes Lidl stand out in the market.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since you'll be dealing with global suppliers, role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to sharpen your approach. Confidence is key when sealing those deals!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Lidl family.
We think you need these skills to ace Buying Manager Fresh Produce
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fresh Produce:Let us see your enthusiasm for food retail in your application! Share specific examples of your experience with fresh produce and how it drives you to excel in this role.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the Buying Manager position. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with our job description, especially around negotiation and supply chain management.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you the best fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lidl GB
✨Know Your Fresh Produce
Dive deep into the world of fresh produce before your interview. Familiarise yourself with seasonal fruits and vegetables, their growing conditions, and how they impact quality and pricing. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Master Negotiation Scenarios
Prepare for potential negotiation scenarios that may come up during the interview. Think about how you would handle complex supplier negotiations or manage supply chain challenges. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process and demonstrate your confidence in high-pressure situations.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles. Whether it's analysing market trends or assessing product quality, showcasing your analytical skills will highlight your ability to drive results and make strategic decisions as a Buying Manager.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
Lidl values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively within teams in the past. Share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues from different departments to achieve common goals, demonstrating your ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.
