At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise logistics operations for fresh produce across the globe.
- Company: Join Westfalia Fruit, the leading supplier of avocados and fresh produce.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20 days holiday, free parking, pension plan, and life insurance.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage all applicants to apply.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with global reach.
- Qualifications: Experience in logistics or supply chain, preferably in fresh produce or FMCG.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Come and join the leading #avoexperts. Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe. With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avoexperts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded Logistics Manager to lead and optimise our end-to-end logistics operations across the fresh produce supply chain. This role is critical in ensuring the seamless, efficient, and sustainable movement of product from grower source through to retail and wholesale customers.
Working closely with Supply Chain, Quality, Sourcing & Operations, and Commercial teams, you will play a key role in delivering best-in-class service, protecting product freshness and quality, and driving operational excellence across inbound, internal, and outbound logistics activities.
The successful candidate will bring strong logistics expertise, strategic thinking, and proven leadership capability, with the ability to build high-performing partnerships and teams while continuously improving cost, service, resilience, and customer satisfaction across the network.
Responsibilities include:
- Develop and execute logistics strategies that support business growth, service excellence, product quality, and sustainability goals.
- Design and continuously optimise the end-to-end logistics network from grower origins to distribution hubs and customer delivery points.
- Oversee all transport operations including ocean freight, port handling, warehousing, road transport, and final-mile delivery while ensuring cold chain integrity.
- Manage inbound, internal, and outbound freight flows with focus on cost efficiency, service levels, timeliness, and product quality.
- Implement robust logistics processes, risk mitigation, and contingency plans to minimise disruptions and protect service continuity.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Sourcing, Operations, Commercial, Procurement, and Finance teams to align supply, customer demand, and logistics performance.
- Lead selection, negotiation, and performance management of 3PLs, carriers, shipping lines, and warehouse partners, driving continuous improvement and long-term partnerships.
- Ensure compliance with international transport regulations, customs requirements, and sustainability initiatives including carbon reduction and packaging efficiency.
- Monitor logistics KPIs, supplier risks, budgets, and commercial terms to optimise operational and financial performance.
- Build and lead a high-performing logistics team, fostering accountability, continuous improvement, succession planning, and talent development.
Requirements:
- Logistics or supply chain roles, preferably in the fresh produce, food, or FMCG sectors.
- Proven track record managing regional logistics, multimodal freight (sea, air, road), and temperature-controlled environments.
- Experience in developing 3PL and carrier partnerships and managing distribution networks.
- Experience in creating and co-ordinating an integrated logistics operation from locally managed operations.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively run logistics operations which are not yet utilising advanced systems, combined with experience in logistics systems implementation and needs definition.
- Deep knowledge of logistics operations, route optimisation, and cold chain logistics.
- Strong analytical skills and experience with ERP systems (SAP, D365, BI tools), and supply chain analytics tools.
- Strong financial acumen with experience in budget ownership, cost modelling, and freight contract negotiation.
- Understanding of customs, import/export regulations, and Incoterms across international markets.
- Strategic thinker with strong execution capabilities and with ability to operate at both operational and executive levels.
- Collaborative, with excellent cross-functional influencing skills, and managing complex supplier negotiations.
- Highly analytical with a data-driven mindset.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Strong leadership presence, with the ability to build trust at all levels internally and externally.
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and embed governance frameworks that drive alignment across regional operations.
- Customer driven, in every aspect of their work.
- Ability to get creative and find practical solutions to business problems, whilst ensuring they are commercially viable.
- Proven experience in strategic procurement, preferably in a pan-European or global role.
- Fluency in English is mandatory with strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and presentation skills.
- Experience developing supplier partnerships and managing risk in dynamic sourcing environments.
Benefits:
- 20 days holiday, inclusive of bank and public holidays.
- Free on-site parking.
- Company pension plan.
- Medicash cash plan.
- Life Insurance.
Please note that this position does not have a specific closing date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and the advert may be removed at any time.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, or veteran, neurodiversity or disability status.
Global Logistics Procurement Manager in South Holland employer: Westfalia Fruit
Westfalia Fruit is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration within the technology sector. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to lead impactful projects on a global scale, all while enjoying competitive benefits such as a generous holiday allowance and a discretionary company bonus. Our Kings Hill, Kent location, combined with the flexibility of remote work, ensures a balanced and rewarding work environment for our team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Logistics Procurement Manager in South Holland
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Westfalia Fruit and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Westfalia Fruit!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Westfalia Fruit keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Logistics Procurement Manager in South Holland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Westfalia Fruit:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Westfalia Fruit. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westfalia Fruit
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Westfalia Fruit.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Westfalia Fruit that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Westfalia Fruit. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!