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.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital role ensuring quality fresh produce for customers.
- Qualifications: Driving licence required; FLT licence preferred but training provided.
- Other info: Flexible night shifts with excellent career development potential.
The predicted salary is between 36050 - 50470 £ 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.
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 & Market Operative employer: Watts Farms (Sales) Ltd
Contact Detail:
Watts Farms (Sales) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Buyer & Market Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Watts Farms and understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to procurement and fresh produce. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated your organisational skills and decision-making abilities. We want to see how you handle real-life situations!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Watts Farms!
We think you need these skills to ace Night Buyer & Market Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Night Buyer & Market Operative role. Highlight any relevant experience, especially in fresh produce or procurement, and don’t forget to mention your driving and FLT licences if you have them!
Craft a Catchy Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team at Watts Farms. Mention your attention to detail and organisational skills, and how they align with our focus on quality and efficiency.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves working closely with the Procurement Manager and Operations Team, make sure to showcase your excellent communication skills in your application. Give examples of how you've effectively collaborated in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to attach all your documents in one go. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watts Farms (Sales) Ltd
✨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 important in a Night Buyer position.
✨Master the FLT Basics
Even if you haven't used a Counterbalance forklift before, it’s worth brushing up on the basics. Knowing how to safely load and unload products will demonstrate your readiness to take on the practical aspects of the job.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be working closely with the Procurement Manager and Operations Team, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially when it comes to problem-solving or reporting issues.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
This role requires a flexible approach to working hours. Be prepared to discuss how you can adapt to changing schedules and demands, and share any previous experiences where you successfully managed flexibility in your work.