Buyer - Food Commodities (UK & Europe)

Position: Buyer – Food Commodities Location: Hybrid in UK, Germany, Netherlands Start Date: Immediately SCA Group are seeking an experienced Buyer with a strong background in purchasing food commodities from wholesalers and manufacturers across the UK and key European markets including Germany, Belgium, and The Netherlands. The ideal candidate will be skilled in supplier identification, price negotiation, and sourcing across all food categories. This role requires excellent commercial acumen, strong negotiation skills, and an in-depth understanding of the food supply chain within these regions. Key Responsibilities: Source and procure food commodities from wholesalers and manufacturers in the UK, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, and wider EU markets. Identify potential suppliers, evaluate their offerings, and establish strong supplier relationships. Obtain competitive pricing and negotiate terms to ensure best value and supply security. Analyse supplier and individual product pricing, preparing detailed reports and presentations for senior management review. Work closely with Quality and Food Safety personnel to ensure all procured food complies, knowledge of Defence Quality Food Standards (DFQS) is considered a plus. Manage purchase orders, contract negotiations, and supplier agreements in line with company policies. Collaborate with all internal stakeholders to ensure timely delivery and compliance. Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply risks to inform purchasing decisions. Maintain accurate procurement records, reports, and supplier performance metrics. Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize procurement processes and cost savings. Requirements: Proven experience as a Buyer or Procurement Specialist within the food industry, specifically dealing with wholesalers and manufacturers in the UK and Europe (Germany, Belgium, Netherlands). Strong negotiation and communication skills. Knowledge of food commodity categories including fresh produce, meat, dairy, frozen foods, ambient goods, and non-food items. Ability to identify and evaluate suppliers based on requirements, price, quality, and service. Proficient in procurement software (i.e. SAP, Dynamics) and Microsoft Office suite. Strong commercial acumen and analytical skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Fluency in English; additional European languages (German, Dutch, French) advantageous. Strong sense of business conduct. Availability: immediately Preferred Qualifications: Degree or professional qualification in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field. Experience with UK and EU food import/export regulations and logistics. Familiarity with sustainability standards and ethical sourcing practices.