KEY RESPONSABILITIES:

• Lead the commercial buying strategy for all F&B brands and concepts, ensuring an optimal product mix and competitive pricing.
• Drive menu development and design in collaboration with culinary and operations teams – ensuring alignment with customer demographics, forecasted volumes, and commercial targets.
• Identify and negotiate with suppliers to deliver quality, value, and innovation across all categories.
• Monitor market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activity to inform buying decisions and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with operations, marketing, and finance teams to launch new concepts and optimise existing offers.
• Analyse sales data and KPIs to maximise profitability and minimise waste.
• Build strong relationships with brand partners and internal stakeholders.
• Champion sustainability and local sourcing initiatives, aligning with evolving consumer expectations and Lagardère’s ESG goals.

QUALIFICATIONS AND KEY SKILLS:

• Proven experience in commercial buying, category management, menu development or procurement within F&B, hospitality, or retail.
• Demonstrated ability in menu planning, ingredient sourcing, and cost management.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Analytical mindset with a passion for data-driven decision-making.
• Commercial acumen and the ability to spot and act on emerging trends.
• Experience working with branded and own-brand F&B concepts is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive, entrepreneurial approach and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Lagardère UK Travel Retail is seeking a dynamic and commercially driven professional to lead the commercial buying function for our growing Food & Beverage (F&B) portfolio. This includes iconic brands such as Burger King, Supermac, Wasabi or our own-brand concepts like Ship, and pipeline of innovative new brands and partnerships. As a key member of our team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel dining across the UK.
Benefits: Simplyhealth cash plan, Retail Trust, life insurance, and up to 25% in-store discounts