Come and join the leading #avoexperts 🥑
Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.
With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avoexperts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
We’re looking for a new Head of Sourcing to lead our exceptionally talents team in Europe.
The Head of Sourcing is accountable for all aspects of sourcing fresh produce for our customers across Europe, ensuring a consistent, high-quality, cost-effective, and sustainable supply that supports both global and regional business needs. Operating as a key member of the global sourcing leadership team, this role translates global strategies into regional execution, develops strong partnerships with the Westfalia sourcing teams in countries across the globe, strategic growers and suppliers, and ensures compliance with food safety and sustainability standards. The role is central to delivering reliable supply to customers by proactively managing supplier performance, anticipating market risks, and optimizing sourcing strategies tailored to the European context. By driving efficiency, fostering innovation, and aligning with commercial and operational teams, the Head of Sourcing ensures that European procurement contributes effectively to overall business growth and customer satisfaction.
Responsibilities include:
- Lead the execution of a regional sourcing strategy, translating global objectives into actionable European plans.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with growers, cooperatives, and suppliers across key European regions.
- Negotiate contracts and pricing to optimize cost, quality, and supply risk across multiple crop categories.
- Monitor market trends, climate conditions, and regulatory shifts to proactively manage sourcing risks.
- Deliver value through supplier innovation, competitive negotiations, and sustainable sourcing practices.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, traceability, and sustainability standards across all supply operations.
- Align closely with supply chain, logistics, and quality teams to ensure efficient, reliable product flows.
- Drive operational excellence through inventory and transportation optimization across European markets.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing sourcing team with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Represent the sourcing function in industry forums, trade shows, and professional associations to stay ahead of market trends.
Experience we look for:
Essential
- Must have prior substantial experience in the procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management of avocados, Mangos, Pitted Fruit or Berries. Given the parameters of this role, we will not consider other categories.
- Proven track record in supplier and grower management, including contract negotiation, supplier development, and long-term partnership building.
- Experience with perishable products, seasonal cycles, and supply risk management.
- Strong knowledge of European food safety standards, sustainability practices, and compliance frameworks (e.g., GlobalG.A.P., BRC, Smeta).
- Demonstrated experience managing cross-border sourcing and logistics in a complex, matrixed organisation.
- Commercial and financial acumen to connect sourcing decisions with margin performance and business growth.
- Fluent in English.
- Must demonstrate a ‘customer comes first’ attitude, ensuring that customer needs and satisfaction are always prioritised in decision-making and daily responsibilities.
- Proven collaborative leader with the ability to build trust, influence stakeholders, and adapt seamlessly across diverse European markets.
- Results-driven professional who balances strategic focus with hands-on execution, committed to sustainability and continuous improvement in sourcing practices.
Desirable
- Fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, French, or German is advantageous.
What can Westfalia Fruit offer you?
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package that will vary by location. Full details will be shared as part of the interview process.
- Enjoy a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Be part of a global organisation recognised as a leader in fresh produce.
- Join a purpose-driven company committed to sustainability and innovation.
- Contribute to an industry leader at the forefront of fresh produce innovation.
Please note that this position does not have a specific closing date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and the advert may be removed at any time.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, or veteran, neurodiversity or disability status.
