At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Foodservice buying strategy and drive category growth.
- Company: Major UK wholesale and foodservice organisation with ambitious goals.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to shape strategy.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop talent and create a high-performance culture.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a high-impact leadership role.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior trading or buying roles within Foodservice or FMCG.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A major UK wholesale and foodservice organisation is looking to appoint a Buying Controller – Foodservice to lead the strategic direction, commercial performance and long‑term growth of their Foodservice trading agenda. This is a high‑impact, senior leadership role with responsibility for shaping category strategy, strengthening supplier partnerships and driving a differentiated, insight‑led proposition for operators across the sector.
About the Role
Reporting to the Trading Director, you will take full ownership of the Foodservice buying strategy by setting the long‑term direction, identifying new growth opportunities and ensuring the commercial plan delivers sustainable income, margin and value for customers. You will lead a team of Buyers and Assistant Buyers building a high‑performing, insight‑driven function that delivers best‑in‑class category management. A key part of the role will be developing a forward‑thinking Own Brand strategy, expanding the range into new categories and working cross‑functionally to bring innovative, commercially compelling products to market. You will also be responsible for building a strategically aligned supplier base, onboarding new partners, negotiating complex commercial agreements and driving increased investment, improved terms and long‑term value creation. Alongside this, you will shape promotional and pricing frameworks, lead Joint Business Planning with key suppliers and ensure the Foodservice proposition remains competitive, relevant and operator‑focused.
About You
You will bring significant experience in a senior trading, buying or category leadership role within Foodservice, Wholesale or FMCG. You’ll have a deep understanding of operator needs, routes to market and sector dynamics, with a proven track record of delivering category growth, supplier investment and commercial success. You’ll be a strategic thinker with strong analytical capability, able to translate market trends into actionable plans and build a compelling, future‑focused Foodservice proposition. Experience in Own Brand development is highly desirable, as is a strong network across the supplier landscape. You’ll be an inspiring leader who can develop talent, drive accountability and create a high‑performance culture. Strong negotiation skills, commercial acumen and the ability to influence at senior level both internally and externally are essential.
What You’ll Get in Return
You’ll join a forward‑thinking, ambitious organisation where you’ll have the autonomy and influence to shape the Foodservice strategy and make a meaningful impact. A competitive salary and benefits package is on offer, alongside hybrid working (South Yorkshire office with home‑working flexibility), and the opportunity to lead a function that is central to the company’s long‑term growth plans.
Next Steps
If you have the experience, leadership capability and commercial drive to take on this senior Foodservice buying role, please apply with an up‑to‑date CV.
Buying Controller - Foodservice employer: Rise Resourcing
Join a dynamic and ambitious wholesale and foodservice organisation that values innovation and strategic thinking. As a Buying Controller, you will enjoy a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and the flexibility of hybrid working from our South Yorkshire office. With a strong focus on employee growth and a high-performance culture, this role offers you the chance to make a significant impact on the Foodservice strategy while developing your leadership skills in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Controller - Foodservice
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend foodservice events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Buying Controller role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and their competitors. We want you to walk in with insights that show you’re not just another candidate, but someone who understands the Foodservice landscape inside out.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you’ve built high-performing teams in the past. We believe that demonstrating your ability to inspire and drive accountability will set you apart from the rest.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. We’re excited to see how you can contribute to our Foodservice strategy!
We think you need these skills to ace Buying Controller - Foodservice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Buying Controller role. Highlight your experience in Foodservice, Wholesale, or FMCG, and showcase your strategic thinking and leadership skills. We want to see how you can drive category growth and supplier partnerships!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in buying or category management that align with our needs. Let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical capability, make sure to include any relevant data or insights you've worked with in your application. We love seeing how you've translated market trends into actionable plans in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rise Resourcing
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Buying Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to category performance, supplier negotiations, and market trends. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've developed talent and built high-performing teams. Think about specific situations where you inspired accountability and fostered a culture of excellence.
✨Understand the Market Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current trends in the Foodservice and Wholesale sectors. Be prepared to discuss how these trends impact buying strategies and how you can leverage them to create a competitive edge for the organisation.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Negotiation skills are crucial for this position. Think of past experiences where you successfully negotiated complex agreements. Be ready to role-play or discuss your approach to securing better terms and building long-term supplier relationships.
