Junior B2B Buyer – Asian & Japanese Gastronomy

About the job

Company context: B2B import and distribution of high-end food products, beverages and tableware, intended for Japanese and Asian gastronomy (restaurants, delicatessens, restaurant chains). Complex international logistics flows (Large Import) and management of multi-temperature perishable products (dry, fresh, frozen).

1. JOB IDENTIFICATION

Job title: Junior Buyer / B2B Import Flow Manager

Reporting line: Purchasing Manager / Supply Chain Manager

Internal interfaces: Buyers, Sales, Freight Forwarders, Warehouse/Logistics Manager

External interfaces: International suppliers (Asia/Japan/US/EU), Carriers, Customs Brokers

2. MAIN MISSION

Under the supervision of the Purchasing Manager, the Junior Buyer ensures the optimal availability of key Asian gastronomy products (groceries, fresh/frozen products, sakes, customer packaging) while maintaining a controlled stock level. They manage the entire supply flow from placing international orders to final delivery at the B2B logistics warehouse, strictly complying with customs and health regulations specific to the agri-food sector.

We are looking for a motivated, dynamic and proactive person who shows initiative and good analytical skills.

You are able to take a step back from situations, identify problems and propose concrete solutions rather than stopping at the difficulties encountered.

You have a sense of responsibility, are autonomous and know how to question yourself. You welcome constructive feedback openly and consider it as an opportunity to improve.

A good basic knowledge in the field is desired, but extensive experience is not essential. We place more importance on your motivation, your ability to think and your willingness to learn.

Training and support will be provided to enable you to develop your skills and progress in your role.

3. LOGISTICS MISSIONS AND ACTIVITIES

A. Operational management of imports (large import + Europe)

Calculate and plan: order needs according to stock status, commercial sales forecasts and product seasonality (e.g. year-end peaks, festivals).

Enter and issue: international purchase orders in the ERP based on the catalogue of approved suppliers.

Coordinate: international transport (FCL/LCL maritime, air) in direct contact with freight forwarders and optimise container fill rates.

Secure: the proper compilation of import files (invoices, Bill of Lading, health certificates of origin, non-radiation certificates, phytosanitary approvals).

B. Stock management and compliance with the agri-food value chain

Monitor rotation: best before dates (BBD) and minimum durability dates (MDD) to minimise markdowns on ultra-fresh and dry products.

Continuously adjust: stock levels in relation to the multi-temperature storage capacity of the warehouse (dry, fresh at +4°C, frozen at -18°C).

Anticipate: stock shortages on strategic products (e.g. premium rice, speciality soy sauces, aged sakes) and immediately alert the sales force in case of container delays.

C. Operational management of supplier relations and dispute handling

Monitor: daily supplier production deadlines and confirm shipping dates.

Manage: receipt anomalies (transport damage, quantity discrepancies, temperature non-conformities) and handle claims/credit notes with third parties.

Evaluate: supplier service rate (KPI) and submit regular reports to the manager.

4. REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Technical skills (Hard Skills)

Education: preferably technical, with good numerical skills. A first experience (including internship) in import or agri-food is highly valued.

Languages: Fluent English is essential (daily written/spoken exchanges with abroad). Knowledge or notions of Japanese and/or Chinese are a highly differentiating asset.

IT tools: Operational mastery of an ERP tool (SAP, Sage, Microsoft Dynamics, etc.).

Office software: Excellent mastery of Excel (advanced lookup functions, Pivot Tables).

Sector knowledge: Sensitivity to health regulations (HACCP, food traceability) and basic customs procedures.

Personal qualities (Soft Skills)

Rigor and precision: To handle a large number of references (SKUs) with very precise storage characteristics.

Stress management: Facing maritime hazards (ship delays, port congestion) and operational urgency. Ability to react quickly to stock shortages or production emergencies.

Interpersonal skills: To act effectively as a bridge between the sales force, foreign suppliers and warehouse teams.

5. CAREER PROSPECTS

After 2 to 3 years in this position, career progression prospects include Senior Buyer roles,