Buying Manager Fresh Produce

Summary

£77,000 - £88,000 | 35 days' holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme

Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table - but we also have a whole lot in common. We're curious, collaborative, and ready to make a tangible impact on where we work

Just like you.

Our award-winning Buying Department is looking for an experienced Fresh Produce Buying Manager to join the team. You'll be the architect of our market-leading Fresh Produce section, influencing everything from the vibrant color of our tomatoes to the crispness of our seasonal greens.

You'll play a major role in shaping our fresh produce range-deciding which seasonal fruits and vegetables are in our stores. From field-to-fork supply chain management and quality control to global contract negotiations, you will drive our market-leading position in one of the most high-profile categories in retail.

You'll excel in a dynamic, high-pressure environment where 'freshness' isn't just a buzzword-it's a deadline. You have a true enthusiasm for food retail and a keen eye for quality. You are self-driven, commercially perceptive, and possess the drive to negotiate the best deals for our customers. 

Our network of over 1,000+ stores relies on your expertise as a Fresh Produce Buying Manager to ensure that when our doors open at 8:00 AM, the best products in the business are ready and waiting, making our customers fans and demonstrating that we are more to value. If you have a proactive mindset and a desire to succeed in a fast-moving, award-winning retailer, we want to hear from you.

At Lidl, we offer a hybrid working model to give you the best of both worlds. Spend three days or more in our state-of-the-art office, where you can enjoy an on-site gym, restaurant, and more of the perks you deserve. And with up to two days at home, you'll find the work/life balance you need to thrive.

What you'll do

• Demonstrate the confidence to manage multi-million pound investments across global commodity and fresh produce markets

• Develop strategic solutions for complex supply chain hurdles, managing everything from harvest fluctuations to logistics, while taking full ownership as the lead decision-maker for your categories

• Take total accountability for the journey of every item of fruit and vegetable, spanning from the farm gate to the shelf edge

• You'll lead rigorous quality inspections and sensory assessments to perfect the 'appearance and texture' 

• Negotiate with global growers and suppliers, and give the final seal of approval on packaging and presentation

• Oversee the critical path from initial product concept-whether it's a new seasonal variety or a sustainably grown option-to its arrival in our depots

• Ensure that every batch meets our strict quality benchmarks and lands in our Regional Distribution Centres exactly when needed to stock our 1,000+ stores 

• Navigate complex negotiations and build a world-class supplier network

• Demonstrate confidence when presenting to Buying Directors and Board Directors

• Have an analytical eye to master the 'science of fresh produce

• Collaborate with your fellow buyers and colleagues in other departments, but have the initiative to drive your own work independently

What you'll need

• A background as a Fresh Produce Buyer or a similar commercial role within food retail will be highly advantageous 

• Demonstrated success leading complex negotiations with major suppliers, alongside a strong grasp of how yield and pricing are affected by seasonality, weather, and shifting commodity costs

• Understand the technicalities of fresh produce production-from varietal differences and growing conditions to post-harvest handling and shelf life-and how they translate to customer satisfaction.

• Known for being pragmatic, logical, and exceptionally quick-thinking 

• You exude presence, demonstrate confidence, and stand firmly behind your ideas 

• Possession of a full UK driving licence 

• Already live - or happy to relocate - within a one-hour commute of Lidl GB Head Office, Tolworth

• German language skills desirable but not essential

What you'll receive

• 35 days holiday (pro rata)
• 10% in-store discount
• Enhanced family leave
• Pension scheme
• Plus, more of the perks you deserve

We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment

If you're ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now. 

*includes 10% non-contractual London Weighting allowance