KOREA FOODS COMPANY • New Malden, London KT3 4PH

Purchasing Assistant (Chinese Speaking)

About this role

Hours per week

42.5 (M – F 0830 – 1800 *an hour unpaid break inclusive)

Contract

Permanent, Full-time, Subject to 3-month probation

Expected Start date

ASAP

Reports To

Purchasing Officer

Location

office-based

Duties & Key Responsibilities

Manage Chinese food product category and supplier relationships

Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers

Monitor stock levels and place orders to ensure availability

Maintain appropriate inventory and back stock levels

Check incoming goods for quality and accuracy

Monitor and update product pricing when required

Track sales performance and report to management

Process invoices, returns, and related documents

Liaise with branches regarding promotions and stock issues

Communicate with suppliers, customers, and internal teams

Maintain accurate records and filing systems

Ensure data accuracy in purchasing and inventory systems

Follow company procedures and complete ad hoc tasks as required

Requirements

1–2 years’ experience in retail or wholesale (food industry preferred)

Knowledge of Chinese food products, importation, or labelling (advantageous)

Fluent in Mandarin and English

Good numerical and analytical skills

Strong organisational and time management skills

Good attention to detail and accuracy

Strong communication and negotiation skills

Ability to multitask and work independently

Proactive, reliable, and able to work in a fast-paced environment

Willingness to learn and adapt

Key benefits but not limited to, include

· Paid day off on your birthday

· Yearly bonus

· Free onsite parking

· Holiday starting at 28 days plus a personal day rising to 29 days after 5 years (Bank holidays inclusive);

· Pension scheme 3% contributed by the company

· Annual pay review

· 5% discount from Company’s retail stores Seoul Plaza and Cash and Carry

The Company

Korea Foods Company is the leader in the supply of Korean food in the UK. A family-run business, established in 1999, Korea Foods Company has over 500 employees working within its Head Office, Logistics Centres, and Retail Stores.

We import from key brands in Korea, and distribute to the Asian community, focusing on East Asian consumers. We have also seen substantial growth within the supermarket multiples, securing significant listings with Tesco, Morrisons, Asda, and Costco.

We also operate our own retail store network, Seoul Plaza, currently with 21 stores within the estate, with more opening in 2026.

Growth has been consistently double-digit, with a sales turnover in excess of £85 million.

The company is an incredibly dynamic and fast-paced place to work, with ambiguity and transparency that is often associated with family-run businesses. It is, also, whilst not for the faint-hearted, a rewarding workplace where personal achievements are recognised due to the relatively flat management structure.