At a Glance
- Tasks: Select and purchase fresh produce at Covent Garden Market to fulfil customer orders.
- Company: Join a family-run farming business with a rich history since 1952.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, training opportunities, and a friendly onsite canteen.
- Other info: Flexible hours with excellent career development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital role ensuring quality produce for customers while working night shifts.
- Qualifications: Driving licence required; FLT licence preferred but training provided.
The predicted salary is between 36050 - 36050 £ per year.
We are looking for a Night Buyer to join our Procurement team based at our site in Aylesford. The successful candidate will arrive on site in Aylesford each shift and then travel to Covent Garden Market in a Company vehicle to purchase products to fulfil customer orders. Please note; the first month additional training will be required with shifts 16:00 - 02:00. Following training, shifts will be 18:30 - 04:30.
The Night Market Buyer is specifically accountable for:
- Selecting and purchasing fresh produce and dairy products in New Covent Garden Market to fulfil customer orders
- The quality, quantity and cost of products purchased
- Loading vehicles with the use of a Counterbalance FLT
- Safe & efficient delivery of products back to site at Aylesford
What does the job involve? This role plays a vital part in our operations cycle. The purpose of the role is to ensure we consistently offer our customers great availability by accurately and efficiently selecting and purchasing fresh products from market, with a maintained focus on quality and cost.
Working collaboratively with the Procurement Manager on the day to day purchasing of products. Ensuring the accurate quantity of suitable quality product is sourced, at a price consistent with business requirements. Reporting daily to the Procurement Manager and Operations Team regarding any purchasing shortfalls or shelf-life concerns. Use of Counterbalance forklift in the market (unloading and loading of pallets, retrieving orders from market suppliers). Completing purchasing records accurately, including goods receipt notes, traceability and quality of assessment records.
Key Skills / Experience
- Driving licence is essential for this position
- FLT licence is desirable, however full training will be provided
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work on your own initiative
- Trustworthy, self-motivated and proactive with a high attention to detail
- Excellent organisational skills coupled with confident decision making & prioritisation skills
- I.T literate, intermediate MS Office (Word/Excel)
- Previous experience in fresh produce is preferred but not necessary
Working hours
18:30–04:30 5 nights per week on a rota basis, flexibility is essential in order to meet the requirements of the role.
About Us
Watts Farms is a third-generation family-run farming business, established in 1952. Growers, Packers and Distributors of fresh produce supplying the hospitality industry across Kent, London, and surrounding areas. We also offer a Home Delivery service, offering freshly picked fruit and vegetables from our own farms as well as a full range of grocery, dairy, alcohol, and pantry goods. We pride ourselves on quality!
What we can offer you…
- 31 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- Payment reward for friend referrals
- Development & Training opportunities
- Onsite canteen area offering daily refreshments
We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment. Please note: Employment checks will include Drugs & Alcohol test.
Night Buyer & Warehouse Operative in Aylesford employer: Watts Farm
Watts Farms is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that values employee growth and development. Located in Aylesford, our team enjoys competitive benefits including 31 days of holiday, training opportunities, and a welcoming onsite canteen. Join us to be part of a family-run business that prioritises quality and fosters a sense of community among its employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Buyer & Warehouse Operative in Aylesford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Watts Farms and their values. When you show up for an interview, drop in some knowledge about their history or products. It’ll impress them and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions and think about how your skills match the job description. We want you to feel confident when discussing your experience with fresh produce and your organisational skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s a night shift, looking professional can make a great first impression. Show that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to jump into the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Night Buyer & Warehouse Operative in Aylesford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fresh Produce:When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about working with fresh produce. Share any relevant experiences or interests that highlight your enthusiasm for quality food and the hospitality industry.
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:Since this role involves managing purchasing records and ensuring product quality, make sure to emphasise your organisational skills. Give examples of how you've successfully managed tasks or projects in the past.
Be Clear About Your Availability:We need someone flexible with their hours, so be upfront about your availability in your application. Mention if you can commit to the required shifts and any flexibility you might have.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can get back to you promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watts Farm
✨Know Your Produce
Familiarise yourself with different types of fresh produce and dairy products. Being able to discuss quality indicators and sourcing methods will show your passion for the role and your understanding of what’s required.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be working closely with the Procurement Manager and other team members, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Demonstrate Initiative
Think of instances where you took the initiative in previous jobs. Whether it was improving a process or solving a problem, being proactive is key in this role. Be ready to share these examples during your interview.
✨Get Comfortable with Technology
Brush up on your MS Office skills, particularly Excel, as you'll need to manage purchasing records. If you have experience with any inventory management systems, mention that too. Showing you're tech-savvy can give you an edge!