At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape sourcing strategies for ingredients and packaging in a mission-driven consumer goods business.
- Company: High-growth FMCG company in East Sussex with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible 4-day work week, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to quality and sustainable growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sourcing and supplier development in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in procurement with strong negotiation skills and knowledge of food safety standards.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
Pod Talent is excited to be partnering with a mission‑driven, high‑growth consumer goods business in East Sussex, who are looking to appoint a Procurement Manager to their team (4 days per week in the office).
In this role, you will play a critical part in shaping how the business sources ingredients, packaging, and finished goods, and how it partners with component suppliers, co‑manufacturers, and service providers. You’ll take ownership of the sourcing strategy, formalise supplier governance, and lead supplier development initiatives that support quality, scalability, and sustainable growth.
- Develop and execute sourcing strategy across ingredients, primary and secondary packaging, and finished‑goods co‑manufacturing, in line with cost, quality, scalability, and sustainability goals.
- Lead supplier identification, qualification, and onboarding, including market mapping, sample and trial sourcing, technical/commercial evaluation, and approval into the Approved Supplier List.
- Own supplier performance and development, driving scorecards, business reviews, joint improvement plans, and continuous‑improvement initiatives across quality, cost, service, and sustainability.
- Establish supplier governance and standards, building supplier frameworks and guidance (product development and delivery standards) in collaboration with Technical and Quality teams.
- Manage COGs, negotiations, and NPD sourcing, leading tenders and commercial negotiations, supporting new product development through ingredient and supplier selection, and overseeing manufacturing trials and pilot runs.
4+ years’ experience in sourcing/procurement/supplier development, ideally within regulated FMCG sectors such as wellness, supplements, food & drink, or premium beauty.
Strong commercial and negotiation capability, with hands‑on ownership of COGs, tenders, supplier contracts, and total cost‑of‑ownership analysis.
Solid working knowledge of supplier quality and food‑safety standards.
UK candidates only with a permanent right to work in the UK.
Procurement Manager Food/fmcg employer: Pod Talent
Contact Detail:
Pod Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager Food/fmcg
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the FMCG sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Procurement Manager role. 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’s sourcing strategies and sustainability goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how they operate and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves a lot of COGs and supplier contracts, being able to demonstrate your negotiation prowess during interviews will set you apart from the competition.
✨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 that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager Food/fmcg
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Manager role. Highlight your experience in sourcing, supplier development, and any relevant achievements in the FMCG sector. We want to see how your skills align with our mission-driven approach!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how you can contribute to our growth. Be sure to mention specific examples from your past that demonstrate your negotiation skills and supplier management experience.
Showcase Your Knowledge: In your application, don’t forget to showcase your understanding of food safety standards and sustainability practices. We’re looking for someone who not only knows the ins and outs of procurement but also shares our commitment to quality and sustainability.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pod Talent
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sourcing strategies, supplier governance, and the specific FMCG sector. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven improvements in quality and cost.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you’ve achieved significant savings or improved supplier performance. Highlight your commercial acumen and how it has positively impacted your previous employers.
✨Understand Sustainability Goals
Since this role focuses on sustainable growth, be prepared to discuss how you can integrate sustainability into procurement processes. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've led that align with these goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions about the company's sourcing strategy and supplier partnerships. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values.