Category Buyer

• Location: Hemel Hempstead, UK
• Job Type: 12-month FTC (Hybrid working 3 days on site/ 2 days WFH)
• Salary: up to £45k per annum

We are seeking a Procurement Leader/Category Buyer or Manager with expertise in F & B categories (ideally fresh food and coffee), to join our dynamic team. This role is crucial for developing sourcing strategies, ensuring supplier quality, and optimizing costs while upholding the highest standards of freshness, sustainability, and flavour excellence. 

• Category Strategy Development: Design and implement procurement strategies that align with business goals, driving innovation and differentiation in fresh food and coffee categories.
• Strategic Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders and cross-functional partners to execute comprehensive category strategies, particularly focusing on the UK&I market.
• Innovation and Product Development: Collaborate with product development teams and suppliers to introduce new offerings in coffee blends and fresh food categories, staying ahead of market trends.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Establish and nurture partnerships with key suppliers, negotiate contracts, and ensure sustainability commitments.
• Procurement Process Leadership: Implement and develop procurement strategies specific to the UK&I market, providing expertise and guidance across departments.
• Quality Assurance and Cost Optimization: Work with quality assurance teams to maintain high standards and balance cost management with product quality and availability.

• Category Expertise: Deep understanding of F&B categories (fresh food and coffee industries an advantage), including sourcing, supply chain, and market dynamics.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align procurement strategies with organizational objectives.
• Negotiation Skills: Expertise in securing optimal supplier agreements.
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in data analysis to inform decisions and track trends.
• Sustainability Knowledge: Familiarity with sustainable sourcing practices and certifications.
• Leadership: Strong management and communication skills to inspire teams and influence stakeholders.

• 25 days holiday per annum plus bank holidays.
• Hybrid working structure and potential opportunity to go perm after contract
• Life assurance of 2x yearly salary.
• Security of 5-weeks paid sick leave.
• Development opportunities with clearly mapped career paths.
• Support from a strong leadership team committed to diversity and inclusion.

Apply now if interested!