Head of Purchasing

Job Description

Outstanding opportunity for an experienced Head of Purchasing to join a leading food manufacturing company, one of the largest and most advanced in Ireland.

This role is ideal for someone eager to advance their career and deepen their expertise in a top-tier organization. The company places great importance on its employees, providing an excellent environment for career progression.

Position: Permanent, Monday to Friday
Location: Warrenpoint
Salary: Fully negotiable, with an attractive benefits and perks package

Key Responsibilities:

  • Negotiate the best overall terms to ensure the supply base and products meet the company's financial, technical, corporate social responsibility, innovation, brand positioning, and customer goals.
  • Assess and challenge suppliers on their performance regarding value for money, quality, and delivery service, while fostering innovation.
  • Work with commercial finance to support bill of material pricing, ensuring the most competitive pricing for customers.
  • Prepare monthly reports that highlight budget variances in key spending areas and propose plans to address any shortfalls.
  • Collaborate with NPD to implement a SKU rationalization plan that optimizes supply chain efficiency.
  • Ensure a consistent and reliable supply of ingredients and packaging within the business's targeted levels.
  • Identify and onboard new suppliers in line with the company's sourcing and sustainability strategies.
  • Oversee indirect spending, including sourcing, negotiating, and contracting third-party warehousing, transport, facilities, and operational equipment.
  • Develop and execute a profit improvement plan to achieve additional procurement savings beyond those budgeted.

Ideal Candidate:

  • Degree-level education with at least 3 years of experience managing procurement functions in a complex FMCG environment (MCIPS certification or equivalent preferred).
  • Strong collaborative skills with experience in people management.
  • Excellent numerical, verbal reasoning, and IT skills.

For more information on this opportunity or other roles in Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Jack Groves at VANRATH for a confidential discussion.

Ross was incredibly helpful during my recent search for a new role. He understood my skillset and identified how it would benefit a potential employer who I'm pleased to say that I now work for. Many thanks to Ross and many thanks to a very professional company.

Vanrath, specifically Phil, are a delight to work with. They really understand the Belfast market and aware of the potential opportunities. In my experience I have always worked with Phil. He is very informative and great at keeping you informed. He leverages his experience to provide you as much insight as possible.

Rich has been professional effective throughout the entire recruitment process. He has a deep understanding of the industry and provided me with constructive and relevant advice at several occasions. He has a passion for his job which made it a delight for me to work with him.