A super opportunity to join this well established fresh produce business that is looking to recruit a driven, commercially minded Fresh Produce specialist to step into this high-impact, newly created commercial / trading role.
If you have experience buying, selling or trading fresh produce — and you thrive in the fast-moving, world of fresh — this could be your ideal next role.
Working directly with the CEO, you will sit at the heart of the non-retail function with real ownership, real accountability and a clear pathway to accelerate your career.
You will take responsibility for buying, selling, pricing and margin delivery across wholesale, foodservice, export and independent channels — shaping commercial direction while operating in a dynamic, market-led environment.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Trading
- Take ownership of daily buying and selling activity
- Set and adjust pricing in line with live market conditions
- Deliver and protect gross margin performance
- Manage stock risk and short shelf-life exposure
- Align supply with customer demand to optimise returns
Business Development
- Drive growth across wholesale, foodservice and independent accounts
- Identify and secure new non-retail opportunities
- Expand product listings and introduce commercially viable new formats
- Support export market development where appropriate
- Build strong, performance-driven supplier relationships
- Coordinate supply programmes aligned to trading strategy
- Monitor quality, availability and commercial performance
- Contribute to category growth initiatives
- Maintain forward visibility on volumes and margin
- Anticipate volatility, shortages and oversupply risks
- Work cross-functionally to safeguard service and profitability
Commercial Governance
- Maintain accurate reporting on trading activity and margin
- Participate in weekly performance reviews
- Support working capital control and debtor management
What We're Looking For
- 2-3+ years' experience buying, selling or trading fresh produce (or short shelf-life FMCG)
- Strong commercial judgement and natural trading instinct
- Experience supplying wholesale and/or foodservice customers
- Confident working with pricing, costings and financial data
- Established network within non-retail fresh produce markets
- Experience across fruit, vegetables or specialist categories
- Strong analytical capability
- Willingness to travel when required
You will have the autonomy to make trading decisions, develop new revenue streams and directly impact business performance — while working with the CEO in a growing, ambitious business.
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Commercial / Trading manager - Fresh Produce employer: Zest Food Jobs
Zest is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Senior NPD Technologist, you'll enjoy a culture that values ownership and teamwork, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. The company prioritises employee well-being and fosters a supportive atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those passionate about food and product development.
