At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in sourcing and negotiating orders for fresh produce while managing stock and profitability.
- Company: Join a leading supplier of fruit to the UK's top supermarkets with a stellar reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy profit sharing, stock options, enhanced leave, and exciting company events.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for growth, travel, and making an impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: A minimum of one year in buying, preferably in fresh produce; passion for food is essential.
- Other info: Flexibility is key, with potential for international travel and a collaborative work environment.
We are currently seeking an Assistant Buyer with a minimum of a year's buying experience ideally in fresh produce procurement/supply chain; fruit or veg, to join a very successful and expanding business supplying fruit into the UK's premier supermarket. Other experience in buying will be considered if applicants are able to demonstrate a passion for the food industry. The company has an enviable reputation as an employer and offers development, progression & training.
You will be a team player, confident & capable of briefing colleagues, disseminating information and prioritising multiple tasks quickly and efficiently. Flexibility will be important due to the range of duties and the requirement to work reasonable additional hours when required. There may well be the possibility of international travel.
Key elements of the role:
- Source, negotiate and place orders at an agreed price for fruit from a given country of responsibility
- Checking stock of product against daily sales
- Responsible for consignment profitability
- Liaise with freight companies & suppliers
- Build and maintain effective working relationships with agents and shippers
- Develop new sources of business whilst encouraging the development of existing suppliers
- Develop a detailed understanding of the regional fresh produce markets around the world
- Develop an appreciation of the cultural, economic and environmental factors that may impact upon the business
- Assist in the design, development and delivery of presentations to suppliers and/or customers
- Represent the business within the global market
Excellent IT skills, specifically Excel are required, with a second language being highly desirable.
Benefits:
- Profit sharing/share options
- On-site parking
- Employee stock option scheme
- Enhanced maternity/paternity leave
- Company events
- Company pension
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Assistant Buyer employer: Produce People Recruitment Limited
Contact Detail:
Produce People Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network within the fresh produce industry. Attend trade shows, exhibitions, and local food events to meet potential contacts and learn more about the market. Building relationships with suppliers and other buyers can give you an edge in understanding the nuances of the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on global fresh produce trends and market conditions. Follow industry news, subscribe to relevant publications, and engage with online forums. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the food industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills. As an Assistant Buyer, you'll need to negotiate prices and terms with suppliers. Consider taking a short course or reading books on negotiation tactics to enhance your confidence and effectiveness in this area.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with Excel and other relevant IT tools. Since excellent IT skills are required for this role, practice using Excel for data analysis, inventory management, and reporting. Being proficient will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant buying experience, especially in fresh produce procurement. Emphasise any specific achievements or projects that demonstrate your passion for the food industry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your understanding of the fresh produce market and how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight IT Skills: Since excellent IT skills, particularly in Excel, are required, be sure to mention your proficiency in these areas. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles to enhance your application.
Showcase Teamwork and Flexibility: In your application, illustrate your ability to work as part of a team and your flexibility in handling multiple tasks. Use specific examples from past experiences where you successfully managed competing priorities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Produce People Recruitment Limited
✨Show Your Passion for Fresh Produce
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the food industry, especially fresh produce. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest and knowledge in this area.
✨Demonstrate Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've handled, particularly in procurement. Be ready to discuss how you achieved favourable outcomes and built relationships with suppliers.
✨Highlight Your IT Proficiency
Since excellent IT skills, especially in Excel, are crucial for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with data analysis and management. Consider bringing examples of reports or analyses you've created.
✨Understand Global Markets
Research the regional fresh produce markets and be ready to discuss how cultural, economic, and environmental factors can impact sourcing and supply chains. This shows your proactive approach and understanding of the industry.