Procurement Specialist / Buyer

Procurement Specialist / Buyer (UK) - Sydenham ( SE london )

We're proud to partner with some of the most recognisable and innovative companies globally. As we expand our footprint in the UK, we're looking for a passionate and experienced Procurement Specialist / Buyer to join our team.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and commercially savvy Procurement Specialist / Buyer to lead product sourcing and supplier management in the UK. This role plays a crucial part in ensuring that our product range remains exciting, high-quality, and aligned with Blue Tiger's values- local, ethical, and sustainable -while also driving profitability and cost efficiency.

You will be responsible for discovering and onboarding new suppliers, negotiating competitive pricing, maintaining strong relationships, and curating a product portfolio that reflects both client preferences and market trends.

We're particularly interested in candidates who understand the corporate catering, contract foodservice, or workplace hospitality markets , and who can leverage connections or insight into businesses such as Compass Group, ISS, BaxterStorey, Gather & Gather , or similar operators and wholesalers who know the UK foodservice landscape.

Key Responsibilities

🔍 Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new UK-based food and beverage suppliers and wholesalers that meet Blue Tiger's quality, sustainability, and ethical standards.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers across the workplace catering and hospitality ecosystem , including those serving corporate clients (e.g. Compass, ISS, BaxterStorey, Gather & Gather).
• Maintain supplier contracts to ensure consistent service and product availability.
• Conduct regular supplier reviews and performance evaluations.
• Seek opportunities to partner with local producers, niche brands, and ethical wholesalers who can deliver unique offerings aligned with Blue Tiger's values.

💰 Pricing & Cost Control

• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules to maximise value without compromising quality.
• Monitor market trends and pricing fluctuations to protect margins and support accurate forecasting.
• Collaborate with finance and management to forecast future costs and profit margins with precision.

🌟 Product Development & Innovation

• Work cross-functionally with sales and operations to identify gaps and opportunities in the product range.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, emerging brands, and changing workplace food expectations .
• Lead the rollout of new products that reflect evolving customer needs and deliver added value.
• Manage rotating product programs tailored to specific clients-enhancing customer engagement and driving profitability through strategic variety and exclusivity.

⚙️ Operational Efficiency

• Partner with logistics and warehouse teams to ensure seamless onboarding and integration of new SKUs.
• Support demand planning and inventory forecasting to maintain optimal stock levels and reduce waste.
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date product data across systems.

Candidate Profile

✅ Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in procurement, buying, or sourcing -ideally within the catering, hospitality, or food & beverage sector .
• Understanding of the corporate catering or workplace foodservice market , with awareness of key players (e.g. Compass, ISS, BaxterStorey, Gather & Gather) or experience collaborating with wholesalers who supply these sectors .
• Track record of successful supplier negotiations and cost savings.
• Strong commercial acumen and analytical mindset.
• Passion for high-quality, sustainable food and beverage products.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, or similar tools-able to clearly present pricing structures, cost comparisons, and profit analysis.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to help shape a fast-growing, values-driven company in the UK.
• A creative and collaborative culture that values innovation and quality.
• Exposure to exciting and emerging food and beverage brands.

Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.