The Opportunity
We are seeking a Procurement Manager to develop and execute procurement strategies that drive cost savings, enhance supplier performance, and align with sustainability goals. This role will lead the procurement team, optimise processes, and manage supplier relationships to maintain a competitive edge while meeting operational, financial, and strategic objectives.
Key Accountabilities
Supplier Management & Negotiation:
* Negotiate with key suppliers to secure competitive pricing, maintain OTIF (On-Time, In-Full) rates above 95%, and drive sustainable solutions.
* Manage risk proactively to maintain an advantage over industry peers.
* Develop and enforce robust SLAs with key suppliers, targeting a 5% year-on-year net cost reduction while mitigating risk.
Team Leadership & Development:
* Lead, mentor, and support the procurement team to align efforts with business objectives.
* Plan and allocate resources efficiently, ensuring maximum productivity.
* Foster a culture of continuous improvement and proactive problem-solving.
Process Optimisation & Performance Analysis:
* Oversee obsolescence management with strong controls and accountability.
* Continuously analyse and refine procurement processes to enhance efficiency.
* Implement best practices to improve productivity and ensure compliance.
Sustainability & Innovation:
* Align procurement activities with sustainability targets and ethical practices.
* Work with suppliers and stakeholders to identify cost-effective, sustainable solutions.
Systems & Stakeholder Engagement:
* Oversee procurement system upgrades, ensuring seamless integration and adoption.
* Represent the company at purchasing councils and industry forums.
* Maintain clear communication with internal teams to support business objectives.
Order Management & Cost Control:
* Oversee order requests, ensuring accuracy and operational alignment.
* Maintain strict control over procurement spending to uphold budgetary discipline.
Customer Focus & Business Growth:
* Enhance collaboration within procurement and across departments to improve efficiency.
* Drive repeat business through high service standards and trusted supplier relationships.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
CIPS qualification (or equivalent).
Minimum 5 years’ experience in procurement or supply chain management.
Proven expertise in supplier negotiation, cost reduction, and risk management.
Experience leading teams and managing SLAs.
Proficiency in procurement software and system upgrades.
Strong analytical and process optimisation skills.
Desirable:
Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, or a related field.
Experience in international procurement and global purchasing councils.
Knowledge of sustainability and ethical supply chain practices.
Key Skills & Competencies
Leadership & Development:
Ability to inspire, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.
Strong resource planning and prioritisation skills.
Negotiation & Supplier Management:
Expertise in securing competitive pricing, service quality, and innovation.
Strategic supplier relationship management and compliance oversight.
Process & Performance Management:
Data-driven approach to efficiency improvements and cost control.
Strong accountability in order management and operational controls.
Communication & Engagement:
Excellent stakeholder communication skills across all levels.
Ability to represent the organisation effectively in forums and meetings.
Technical & Analytical Skills:
Proficiency in data evaluation and performance metrics.
Comfortable with technology integration and system upgrades.
Personal Attributes:
Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to risk management.
Results-driven and committed to sustainability and cost efficiency.
Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
Strong collaboration and trust-building skills across teams.
Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced environment.
Willingness to travel for supplier meetings, councils, and training.
Committed to continuous professional development.
The Company
With 75 years of experience supplying contract kitchens to the UK’s leading housebuilders and property developers, Paula Rosa Manhattan also serves the social housing sector, including affordable and supported living projects. As part of Ballingslöv International, a Swedish group with a €400m+ turnover across Europe, we uphold values of respect, collaboration, customer focus, continuous learning, and delivering exceptional value to all stakeholders.
Note to agencies: We do not accept unsolicited CVs from agencies