Interim Food Procurement Manager

£400 to £500p.day (umbrella company gross day rate/inside IR35) We are seeking a highly experienced and skilled interim Food / Ingredients Procurement Manager to join an esteemed FMCG food company in Surrey. In this critical role, the successful candidate will be responsible for liaising daily with worldwide suppliers and will be involved in all aspects of the purchasing process from identifying new suppliers to managing order placements. The ideal candidate will possess significant experience in food / ingredients procurement within an FMCG environment. Role responsibilities of the Procurement Manager include: Conduct thorough market research to identify and source the most reliable and cost-effective products and suppliers, considering factors such as price, quality, delivery schedules, and industry reputation Negotiate and finalise contracts with suppliers, ensuring that they meet the company's requirements for quality, delivery schedules, and pricing. Monitor the quality of service provided by suppliers and address any issues promptly to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers through regular communication, collaboration, and open dialogue. This may involve scheduling regular meetings to discuss ongoing projects, address concerns, and identify opportunities for improvement. Develop and implement strategies for procuring, storing, and distributing goods in a way that maximises efficiency and minimises waste. Manage the entire procurement process for key contracts in close collaboration with relevant business areas Person Specification of the Procurement Manager: Several years experience in a purchasing or procurement role within a FMCG environment with a strong understanding of perishable goods Experience managing and leading a team Excellent communication across all levels and departments and strong negotiation skills Confident using Microsoft Suites including Excel Excellent planning and organisational skillsHybrid 4 days in office / 1 day from home