We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead and coordinate the company's procurement function. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing food ingredients, beverages, packaging, kitchen consumables, equipment and operational supplies while ensuring cost-effectiveness, quality assurance and continuity of supply across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Determine the food ingredients, beverages, packaging materials, kitchen equipment and operational goods required to support daily restaurant operations.
- Develop and implement purchasing strategies for fresh, chilled, frozen and dry food products, ensuring consistent quality and competitive pricing.
- Identify, assess and appoint suitable suppliers based on quality, reliability, pricing, delivery performance and commercial value.
- Research new products and alternative suppliers to improve product quality, availability and procurement efficiency.
- Negotiate prices, payment terms, delivery schedules and supply agreements to achieve cost-effective purchasing outcomes.
- Prepare, maintain and review supplier contracts, quotations and procurement documentation.
- Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues relating to product quality, shortages, pricing or delayed deliveries.
- Coordinate quality checks of incoming food ingredients and purchased goods to ensure compliance with company specifications.
- Analyse purchasing expenditure, supplier pricing and consumption trends to identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Plan purchasing schedules to maintain adequate stock availability while minimising waste and over-ordering.
- Develop contingency sourcing arrangements for key ingredients and essential operational supplies.
- Work closely with management and kitchen teams to forecast purchasing requirements based on menu demand and seasonal trends.
- Maintain accurate procurement records, supplier databases and purchasing reports for management review.
- Ensure purchasing activities comply with relevant food safety, procurement and contractual requirements.
- Attend supplier meetings, trade exhibitions and industry events to evaluate new products and strengthen supplier relationships.
Person Specification
- Experience in purchasing, procurement or supply chain management within the food, hospitality or restaurant sector.
- Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
- Knowledge of food procurement, quality standards and commercial purchasing practices.
- Ability to analyse costs, manage budgets and identify procurement efficiencies.
- Excellent organisational, analytical and communication skills.
- Proficiency in maintaining procurement records and preparing purchasing reports.
Role Objective
The Purchasing Manager will ensure that SARUNIA FOOD & DRINK LIMITED maintains a reliable, high-quality and cost-effective supply chain, supporting uninterrupted restaurant operations while improving commercial performance through strategic procurement and effective supplier management.
Pay: £29,000.00-£38,300.00 per year
Work Location: In person
