French Dairy Procurement Manager

We are seeking an experienced Procurement Manager with a strong background in foodservice, dairy, and cheese procurement. The role is responsible for sourcing, supplier management, contract negotiation, cost optimization, and ensuring product quality, availability, and supply continuity.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement & Category Management

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for dairy and cheese products.
• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with local and international suppliers.
• Secure competitive pricing, contracts, rebates, and supply agreements.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, seasonality, and supply risks.
• Source new products and support category growth opportunities.

Supplier & Quality Management

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Monitor supplier performance across cost, quality, service, and delivery.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, import, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate supplier audits, corrective actions, and documentation management.

Supply Chain & Commercial Management

• Work closely with demand planning and supply chain teams to maintain stock availability.
• Manage procurement budgets, costs, margins, and supplier pricing movements.
• Support business decisions through market analysis and reporting.
• Implement strategies to reduce costs, waste, stock-outs, and supply disruptions.
• 5+ years' procurement experience within dairy, foodservice, FMCG, food manufacturing, or food distribution.
• Strong experience negotiating with international suppliers and manufacturers.
• Knowledge of import/export procedures, cold-chain logistics, and food safety standards.
• Excellent commercial, analytical, negotiation, and supplier management skills.
• Proficiency in Excel and ERP/procurement systems.
• Strong communication skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Experience

• Sourcing from Europe, UK, Australia, New Zealand, or North America.
• Existing network of dairy manufacturers and suppliers.
• Experience with private-label products.
• Knowledge of Halal requirements and food import regulations.
• GCC/Middle East food industry experience preferred.