Procurement Graduate

About Keelings

Keelings is a family-run Irish business with a full Irish ownership structure and a strong focus on fresh produce. The company operates across Ireland, the UK and Europe, growing, sourcing and supplying premium fruit and vegetables. Its progress is driven by innovation, sustainability and close partnerships, supported by committed people.

Role Purpose

This opportunity is part of Keelings' Graduate Growth programme, created to help strong graduates build the skills and practical experience needed to succeed in the FMCG sector and develop a long-term career with Keelings. The role is a permanent, non-rotational position aligned to degree or masters-level study and sits within one of the company's six Irish business units. Graduates will develop through day-to-day work, group-wide graduate learning, project activity and social events. The programme is scheduled to begin in September 2024, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to a Graduate Assessment Centre in mid to late June as the first recruitment step.

What the Programme Supports

Keelings aims to grow, source and market quality fresh produce in a sustainable way. Its strategic focus is built around better food, people development, improved ways of working, better environmental and social impact, strong partnerships and profitable growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain professional relationships with suppliers and vendors, serving as a day-to-day contact.
• Work closely with suppliers and internal teams to support cost-effective approaches.
• Examine business cases linked to savings, controls, improvements and value creation across group supply chain and indirect spend areas.
• Support procurement plans, purchasing processes and policy and contract compliance.
• Help organise and, where needed, lead meetings, tenders, negotiations and communications for all non-produce activity across the Keelings group.
• Prepare commercial reports, share market insight and present findings to senior leaders when required.
• Carry out purchase order administration.
• Keep vendor records current, including contact details, pricing arrangements and contract information.

Essential Requirements

• A Level 8 or Level 9 qualification in a relevant subject, with graduation within the last 2 years.
• Strong written and spoken communication skills.
• Ability to stay effective in a fast-moving and pressured environment.
• Excellent accuracy and strong attention to detail.
• Fluent English is required; other languages would be an advantage.
• Own transport is needed, as the role is mainly based in Saint Margaret's, Co. Dublin.

Core Competencies

• Collaborative team player.
• Positive mindset.
• Motivated to learn and grow personally and professionally.
• Flexible and adaptable approach.
• Proactive and efficient working style.
• Strong IT capability, including PowerPoint, Word and Excel.
• Very good interpersonal and communication ability.
• High level of confidentiality and discretion.
• Strong planning and organisation skills.
• Able to work independently and use own initiative.

Benefits

• Employee discount at Keelings Farm Shop and access to a subsidised canteen.
• Free on-site parking, including electric vehicle charging points.
• Wellbeing initiatives such as wellness week.

Values

• People Matter.
• Teamwork.
• Integrity.
• Passion for Achievement.

Inclusion and Diversity

Keelings welcomes people from all backgrounds and values the different perspectives, knowledge and experience they bring. The company is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone can feel a strong sense of belonging.

Reasonable Accommodation

If you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, you can let the company know at recruitment_keelings@keelings.com.

Recruitment Process

1. CV submission and email confirmation of receipt.
2. Phone screening.
3. First interview.
4. Second interview.
5. Final outcome and feedback.

Additional Information

This position is part of Keelings Graduate Growth and is a permanent role rather than a rotation-based placement. The role supports procurement activity across non-produce areas for the group.