Category Buying Director

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned professional to lead our Supply Chain business unit as a Category Buying Manager. Reporting to the Head of Buying, you will be responsible for overseeing the efficient sourcing and management of a diverse product portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive revenue growth and cash margin expansion across the product portfolio, with full profit and loss responsibility.
• Purchase goods at the lowest total ultimate cost, ensuring optimal supply chain efficiency.
• Develop and nurture long-standing supplier relationships, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual benefit.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities and sources, staying ahead of market trends and competitor activity.
• Understand crop management, technical requirements, and product specifications, ensuring seamless integration with our supply chain operations.
• Develop crop strategies for the product portfolio, aligning with our overall supply chain strategy and company objectives.
• Lead supplier development, management, and compliance, ensuring adherence to our quality and sustainability standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless processes and efficient operations.
• Lead, develop, and manage a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) for the business unit, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Build and implement annual budgets for the crop portfolio, ensuring strategic alignment and financial prudence.
• Engage in Barfoots' sales and operations planning (S&OP) processes from a supply chain perspective, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

Requirements and Qualifications

• 5+ years of purchasing experience in the fresh produce industry, with a proven track record of success.
• Knowledge of factory and technical requirements, with a strong understanding of crop production techniques.
• Team management and supervisory experience, with a proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong commercial awareness and business acumen, with a deep understanding of financial management and budgeting.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Strong command of the English language, both written and spoken, with additional language skills (Spanish) a distinct advantage.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications, MRP systems, and the internet.
• Full driving license and valid passport, with a willingness to travel internationally.

Why Join Barfoots?

• Investors in People - Silver Award status, recognizing our commitment to employee development and engagement.
• Company pension scheme, life assurance, and employee assistance program, demonstrating our care for our people's well-being.
• Benefits platform, development opportunities, and discounted leisure membership, showcasing our commitment to employee satisfaction and growth.
• Discounted vegetable box scheme, cycle to work scheme, and free onsite parking, highlighting our focus on work-life balance and employee convenience.
• Approved training centre for Highfield qualifications, ensuring our employees have access to industry-leading training and development opportunities.