Graduate Technologist – Exotic Fruit & Vegetables Salary: £27,000 - £30,000 (based on experience)
Job Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week (Monday – Friday, 08:00 – 17:00)
Location: Aston, Birmingham
About the Company A leading fresh produce business operating across the UK and Europe, with a strong network of growers in over 40 countries worldwide. For over 60 years, the company has been supplying high-quality fresh fruit, vegetables, and salads to the UK market, including major retailers. Committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, the company continues to invest in its future while supporting communities globally.
The Role This graduate role is part of the technical team, ensuring that all fresh produce meets legal, safety, quality, ethical, and sustainability standards. It provides an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in the fresh produce sector, working with global suppliers and leading UK retailers. The position also includes national and international travel, visiting suppliers, packhouses, and farms worldwide.
Key Responsibilities:- Assess product quality and seasonality to support sourcing decisions.
- Maintain supplier records within the due diligence system.
- Engage with suppliers on ethical, sustainability, and quality requirements, documenting actions and development.
- Prepare internal reports for customers and suppliers, ensuring compliance with business systems.
- Support internal audits and assist in auditing global suppliers.
- Attend customer meetings to support the wider technical team.
- Lead supplier relationships, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and drive supplier development.
- Manage customer specifications and communicate updates to relevant teams, including maintaining customer databases.
- Act as a product specialist and support new product development.
- Carry out sample preparation and benchmarking activities.
- Prepare monthly internal and external KPI summaries.
- Perform any other ad hoc duties as required.
Requirements:- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and general computer literacy.
- A full, clean driving licence is preferred.
Benefits:- Full training and professional development opportunities.
- Exposure to international travel and supplier visits.
- Hands-on experience with leading UK retailers.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated graduate to develop a career in the fresh produce sector, gaining first-hand experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
