Clayton Farrugia

Results-driven Purchasing Manager with over 17 years of progressive experience in procurement, cost control, and supply chain management across retail, hospitality, and FMCG sectors. Proven track record of reducing acquisition costs, optimising inventory levels, and developing Private Label programmes. Skilled negotiator with strong supplier relationship management and a strategic approach to procurement planning.

Purchasing Manager - Greens Supermarket

(2021-11)

• Negotiate and review acquisition costs to secure best pricing without compromising quality or supply reliability.
• Develop and manage inventory ordering strategies based on current stock levels, seasonality, and promotional activity.
• Conduct logistics planning to optimise net product price across the supply chain.
• Monitor in-store programme implementation and gather store feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Attend trade fairs regularly to identify new suppliers and build commercial relationships.
• Lead the Private Label project in partnership with the Marketing Manager, expanding own-brand product range.

Head of Procurement - AX Hotels PLC

(2019-04 - 2021-10)

• Designed and implemented KPIs to track procurement performance, drive cost savings, and reduce cost of goods.
• Negotiated pricing on key ingredients and established annual group-wide purchasing strategies.
• Forecasted future procurement needs aligned to hotel group operational requirements.

Purchasing Manager - AX Hotels – The Palace & The Victoria

(2013-03 - 2019-05)

• Developed and implemented procurement strategies across two flagship hotel properties.
• Managed supplier relationships and conducted regular price benchmarking and negotiations.
• Supervised daily purchasing activities and the Storekeeping team.
• Handled purchasing requirements for the pre-opening phases of AX Saint John and Rosselli Boutique Hotels.

Cost Controller - AX Hotels Operations Ltd

(2011-12 - 2013-03)

• Monitored and controlled food, beverage, and operational costs across hotel operations.
• Produced detailed cost reports and variance analyses to support management decision-making.

Cost Controller - Le Méridien Hotel & Spa

(2009-10 - 2011-12)

• Managed cost control functions including stock reconciliation, menu costing, and yield analysis.
• Member of the HACCP team, ensuring food safety compliance across the property.

Food & Beverage Cost Controller - Westin Dragonara Resort

(2007-04 - 2009-10)

• Controlled F&B costs across a high-volume resort operation.
• Participated in the Supervisory Skills Training programme (January 2008).

Office Clerk - Soreda Hotel

(2006-02 - 2007-03)

• Provided administrative and clerical support across hotel departments.

Part-Time Stock Controller - Club 22, Portomaso Tower, St Julians

(2007-11 - 2012-04)

• Managed stock control and inventory reconciliation for a busy hospitality venue.

MATSEC O-Levels - Junior Lyceum, Hamrun (1998 - 2003)