Head of Purchasing EMEA

Paragon Talent has been retained by a global freeze-dried fruit business to appoint a Head of Purchasing EMEA, taking responsibility for fruit sourcing, supplier relationships and purchasing strategy across key growing regions.

Experience purchasing agricultural commodities is essential, with a strong preference for fruit and berries sourced directly from growers or processors.

We are particularly interested in red fruit sourcing experience in Egypt, especially strawberries. Experience purchasing other fruits and berries at source would also be valuable.

About you?

• You will need a substantial track record of negotiating supply agreements and managing supplier relationships in producing regions. An understanding of harvest cycles, crop availability, pricing and the practical risks affecting supply is central to the role, alongside experience in traceability, supplier due diligence and responsible sourcing.
• An established supplier network in Egypt would be particularly valuable.
• Fluent English is essential; French or Arabic would be useful.

What’s in it for you?

This is an opportunity to take ownership of a critical part of a global business, with scope to shape its sourcing strategy and develop relationships across Europe and North Africa.

You will have time to work alongside the current role holder before their retirement, gaining a detailed understanding of the supplier base and manufacturing requirements. You will inherit established relationships while bringing your own market knowledge and ideas to strengthen and diversify supply.

The remit covers strawberries and other fruits, including raspberries, blueberries, mango and citrus. It combines commercial responsibility with regular time on the ground, visiting growers, processors and suppliers.

The business will consider remote candidates based in the UK or elsewhere in Europe. Regular travel and time with suppliers and manufacturing teams will be an important part of the role.