At Cibus, our specialists in purchasing and food procurement jobs have over 25 years of relevant experience in the food and drink sector. This extensive background gives us in-depth market knowledge and expertise. Coupled with an exceptional network within the industry, our team really understands the importance of a strong procurement function within businesses and really knows what a great candidate looks like.
We have experience across all levels, from Junior Buyers to Group Procurement Directors, across areas of direct and indirect categories.
Typical roles recruited by our procurement function include:
- Buyer
- Senior Buyer
- Category Buyer
- Category Procurement Manager
- Procurement Manager
- Head of Procurement
- Procurement Director
- Head of Sourcing
- Sourcing Manager
- Purchasing Manager
There has never been more of a demand for talented Procurement & Purchasing people than in today’s recruitment marketplace. Businesses are under immense pressure to examine direct and indirect expenditure, which, given the current political and economic situation, is proving to be more of a challenge than ever.
We have successfully partnered with entrepreneurial start-ups, SMEs, FTSE 500 companies, and leading international food and drink manufacturers. Cibus is a procurement and purchasing job specialist. Whether that is purchasing food jobs or procurement FMCG jobs, we can certainly help you. If you’re a client looking at increasing your current headcount or a candidate keen to explore new opportunities, we are experienced and ready to help.
Why not take a look at all the different sectors we work in that may be of interest to you?
Cibus delivers excellent recruitment solutions in the changing world of the food and drink industry. We are proud of our talented team of knowledgeable recruitment specialists covering all functions and sectors, offering a bespoke service for our clients.
We provide permanent and interim recruitment solutions across Manufacturing, Retail, Foodservice, Food Technology, Product Development, Procurement, Supply Chain, Engineering, HR, Sales & Marketing from graduate to board level.
We’ve worked across the globe, recruiting for start-ups to large international organisations. We have helped and made a real difference to a vast array of clients, working collaboratively with them as they recruit the very best talent to support their strategies.
Understanding Food Procurement and Purchasing Jobs in the UK and Worldwide
Food procurement jobs are critical roles within the food sector, both in the UK and internationally. These roles involve sourcing and acquiring the necessary ingredients, products, equipment/machinery, utilities, and materials required for food production. Professionals in these positions must navigate complex supply chains, negotiate with suppliers, and stay updated with market trends to maintain a competitive edge.
What food procurement & purchasing professionals do
Individuals in food and beverage purchasing jobs are responsible for the end-to-end process of acquiring goods needed for food production. Their duties typically include:
- Â Â Identifying and selecting suppliers
- Â Â Negotiating contracts and pricing
- Â Â Managing supplier relationships
- Â Â Ensuring timely delivery of goods
- Â Â Monitoring market trends and conditions
- Â Â Maintaining quality standards and compliance with regulations
- Â Â Managing inventory levels and forecasting needs
- Â Â Setting the budget for the following year
- Â Â Predicting price increases
Food purchasing professionals may also be involved with indirect procurement, or buying of goods and services that support food production but aren’t directly part of the food itself. These include items such as kitchen equipment, cleaning or office supplies, and packaging materials. Essentially, these are items needed to run a food business smoothly, except the food itself.
To excel in food procurement jobs, professionals are encouraged to have a strong understanding of the food sector, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Roles covered under food procurement and purchasing jobs
Here is a detailed look at various roles within food procurement and purchasing:
- Buyer – responsible for sourcing products and materials. They may specialise in different areas such as raw materials or indirect goods.
- Junior Buyer – handles basic purchasing tasks under supervision from a Senior Buyer or Manager. They will support the team with a smaller purchasing spend.
- Indirect Buyer – focuses on purchasing goods and services that do not go directly into the end product, such as office supplies and maintenance services.
- Direct Buyer – sources goods and materials that are directly used in food production, such as raw ingredients.
- Raw Materials Buyer – this role specifically involves sourcing raw ingredients required for food manufacturing.
- Senior Buyer – have more experience and responsibility, often overseeing a team of buyers and managing significant supplier contracts.
- Category Buyer – this role focuses on specific product categories, managing all purchasing activities related to their assigned category.
- Category Manager/Category Purchasing Manager/Category Procurement Manager – these roles involve strategic management of product categories, including market analysis, supplier selection, and contract negotiation.
- Procurement Manager/Purchasing Manager – oversees the entire procurement process, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with company policies.
- Head of Procurement – leads the procurement department, setting strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring alignment with company objectives.
- Procurement Director – this senior executive role involves overseeing all procurement activities, developing long-term strategies, and driving continuous improvement within the procurement function.
How much do food Procurement and Purchasing professionals get paid?
The salaries for food procurement jobs vary widely depending on the role and experience. For example, a Junior Buyer can earn £20,000 while the Head of Procurement can take home £80,000 upwards.
Besides role and experience, several factors can influence the salaries of individuals with food and beverage purchasing jobs:
-   Location – salaries can vary based on geographic location. Major cities and regions with a high cost of living often offer higher wages to compensate.
-   Company size – larger companies with bigger budgets may offer higher salaries compared to smaller firms.
-   Industry sector – the specific sector within the food industry (e.g., luxury goods, mass-market products) can affect pay rates.
-   Qualifications – advanced degrees or professional certifications can lead to higher salaries.
 Overall, procurement and purchasing food jobs offer competitive salaries that reflect the importance and complexity of these roles within the food and drink sector.
FAQs
What is procurement in food?
Procurement involves sourcing and acquiring the necessary ingredients, products, and materials needed for food production. This process includes finding suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring that quality and cost-efficiency standards are met. It also involves indirect procurement, or the purchasing of goods and services that do not go directly into the final product, such as office supplies, equipment, and maintenance services.
Is procurement a high-paying job?
Yes, it can be. Salaries of food and beverage procurement jobs can vary based on experience, location, and the specific sector. Senior roles, such as Head of Procurement or Procurement Director, can command high salaries.
Is a career in procurement good?
Yes, a career in procurement is generally considered good. It is often demanding and fast-paced, especially within the food and FMCG manufacturing environments. However, it offers a dynamic and rewarding career path with opportunities for growth.
Is procurement a stressful job?
Any job can be stressful. However, individuals who excel in procurement are typically methodical and detail-oriented, which helps them manage the challenges of the role effectively. They often approach tasks with a strategic mindset, reducing stress through careful planning and organisation.
How to become a food buyer?
There are two ways to become a food buyer. You can start in an entry-level position within a company and work your way up to a buyer role or obtain a degree in a relevant subject and secure a placement during your year in the industry.
What is a career in purchasing?
A career in purchasing involves a variety of roles within the food manufacturing industry. Food and beverage purchasing jobs offer opportunities for progression and allow professionals to leverage their strengths, whether it’s negotiating with suppliers or managing budgets.
What type of job is purchasing?
Purchasing requires professionals who can liaise with stakeholders at all levels, both internal and external. It involves making decisions that impact the entire supply chain and ensuring that the company obtains the necessary goods and materials efficiently and economically.
Get in Touch
Whether you’re seeking a new role or the perfect professional, we at Cibus are here to help! Get in touch to discover top opportunities and talents in food procurement and purchasing.
