We’ve been exclusively retained on a confidential mandate to appoint a senior procurement leader to take full global ownership of a high-profile dairy category within a complex, multinational environment, and spend close to £1 billion.
This is a rare opportunity for a strategic operator to lead transformation across sourcing, supplier partnerships, and category development—on a truly global scale.
💼 The Opportunity
* You’ll be responsible for setting the direction and delivering the outcomes for a major global dairy portfolio—shaping supplier strategy, commercial planning, and innovation initiatives across multiple geographies.
* The role sits within the food procurement leadership team and will influence a broad range of stakeholders across operations, supply chain, R&D, and quality. You’ll manage a lean international team and work closely with key regional procurement heads to drive category performance, elevate supplier engagement, and contribute directly to top-line growth and bottom-line delivery.
🧭 Your Core Focus
* Lead the development and execution of a long-term sourcing roadmap for dairy
* Align procurement objectives with commercial, operational, and sustainability priorities
* Build trusted relationships with global and regional suppliers
* Co-create strategic partnerships that drive mutual innovation and efficiency
* Deliver year-on-year improvements in cost, service, risk mitigation, and ESG
* Shape internal governance, influence decision-making, and build category capability
* Mentor and develop a high-performing team of global sourcing professionals
🌎 Your Background
We’re looking for someone with a strong track record in dairy. You should have:
* At least 10 years of total experience leading complex sourcing strategies
* International exposure, with comfort navigating matrix structures and diverse business cultures
* Credibility in the boardroom and confidence managing global suppliers
* A background in either FMCG with hands-on category leadership
* The ability to balance commercial instinct with operational pragmatism
* A passion for sustainable sourcing and long-term supplier collaboration
Why This Role?
This is a pivotal time for the category and the wider organization. They’re investing in a more strategic approach to procurement and seeking a leader who can balance big-picture thinking with on-the-ground impact.
If you’re looking to step into a global leadership role where you can drive transformation, shape strategy, and build lasting supplier value—we’d love to speak with you.