Buyer - Meat Operations
The Company
Caterite Food & Wineservice Limited is a leading food and drink wholesaler based in the Lake District delivering to customers in the North of England and Scotland. After 50 years of Foodservice, the company is entering a new chapter in its history, whilst staying true to the values and service which has guided its success so far.
We are in an exciting period of transformational change with significant developments within our business since the company was acquired by METRO in 2024. METRO is an international specialist in food wholesale, a partner of many small and mid-sized independent companies who have made it their goal to lift the food and hospitality sector to a new level and to take advantage of the unique opportunity that the comprehensive digitization of the industry presents.
Caterite Food & Wineservice Limited has worked hard to establish an enviable reputation for supplying customers with top-quality goods exactly to order, all delivered at competitive prices as part of a fast, friendly and efficient service in which extra is standard.
The Role
We are looking for a commercially focused Meat Buyer to join our Fresh Department. Reporting to the Head of Fresh, you will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing meat products, managing supplier relationships, driving commercial performance and ensuring a competitive product range that delivers sales, profitability and quality.
You will have strong commercial instincts, a solid understanding of fresh meat products and the ability to identify market opportunities, negotiate effectively with suppliers and support the continued growth of the department.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and purchase fresh meat products to meet business requirements.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating pricing, availability and promotional opportunities.
- Manage pricing and margin performance to maximise profitability while remaining competitive.
- Monitor market trends, product availability and customer demand to identify commercial opportunities.
- Take responsibility for the meat product range, ensuring it meets customer and business needs.
- Work closely with the Production team to ensure product specifications, quality and supply requirements are achieved.
- Liaise with Sales teams to communicate product availability, promotions and upselling opportunities.
- Oversee stock takes and stock control processes.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, quality and traceability standards across the supply chain.
Requirements
- Proven experience in a meat buying or purchasing role, ideally within the food or wholesale sector.
- Strong commercial awareness with experience managing pricing, margins and supplier negotiations.
- Good knowledge of fresh meat products and market trends.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and organisational skills.
- Ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Analytical approach with strong attention to detail and the ability to identify commercial opportunities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and systems.
Benefits
- Discounted company shopping account
- £500 refer-a-friend scheme
- 28 days holiday plus day for birthday
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Company pension (People’s Pension)
- Long service award
Schedule: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm with flexibility to meet customer requirements and some Saturday working.
Location: Embleton, CA13 9YA (please only apply if you live within a commutable distance and can attend the workplace each day)
Job Type: Full-time
Expected hours: 40 hours per week
Work Location: In person
