Shillito Executive Search are seeking an experienced and commercially savvy Global Procurement Manager/Director to join a growing manufacturing team based in South Yorkshire.
This individual will be responsible for managing and optimising the global supply chain strategy, ensuring a balanced approach between Far East, Turkish, and local suppliers to mitigate fluctuations in raw material prices and freight costs and ensure cost-effective, efficient procurement practices.
The role will focus primarily on the European factories, with the US included in broader conversations.
Reporting to the COO, the responsibilities of this role will include:
1. Strategic Supply Chain Management:
o Develop and execute a balanced supply chain strategy across the Far East, Turkey, and UK to hedge against market fluctuations, manage forecasting variability, and control costs.
o Ensure alignment between procurement strategies and the company's long-term goals, leveraging international suppliers for a diverse and resilient supply chain.
2. Supplier Relationship Management:
o Cultivate and manage long-term relationships with global suppliers, particularly in China, the Far East, and Europe.
o Attend trade fairs and travel to meet suppliers and customers as required, building a network of contacts to support business objectives.
o Work closely with suppliers to monitor and improve quality standards, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality supply.
3. Procurement Process Optimisation:
o Drive process improvements across the procurement function, focusing on efficiency and cost-saving initiatives.
o Lead the centralisation of global procurement processes.
o Establish new procedures and processes to streamline procurement operations and support business needs.
4. Quality and Cost Control:
o Collaborate with factories to assess quality standards, evaluate the costs of poor quality, and drive improvements in quality assurance processes.
o Effectively communicate quality and cost expectations to suppliers and monitor supplier performance.
5. Commercial Acumen & Negotiation:
o Negotiate contracts, manage RFPs, and engage in cost management activities to secure the best commercial terms for the business.
o Utilise analytical tools to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and optimise purchasing strategies.
6. Inventory Management:
o Oversee inventory management practices, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimising the risks of stockouts or excess inventory.
o Identify opportunities to improve ordering processes and automate where feasible to reduce manual processes.
7. Change Management and Continuous Improvement:
o Lead initiatives to drive procurement process automation and streamline ordering and invoicing processes.
o Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement team and the wider business.
We're looking for someone with:
o Extensive experience in procurement or supply chain management within manufacturing or industrial sectors.
o Proven experience in sourcing from China/Far East and Turkish markets, as well as managing a diverse, global supplier base.
o Strong background in supplier negotiations, contract management, and RFP processes.
This role presents a unique opportunity to join a rapidly growing company, with a focus on driving change and innovation in procurement practices.
If you are an experienced procurement professional with a passion for global supply chains, supplier relationships, and continuous improvement, we invite you to apply.
Shillito Executive Search specialises in finding top-tier executive talent for leadership, management, and board-level positions in the manufacturing industry.
We have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the sector and pride ourselves on doing the right things well.
People are our business.