Head of Supply Chain
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Procurement & Cost Management:
* Deliver year‑on‑year cost‑saving initiatives in line with company forecasts and KPIs.
* Manage a £30m annual spend, ensuring optimal value, quality, and commercial performance.
* Analyse spend data, market trends, and supply risks to drive continuous improvement and strategic decision‑making.
Supplier Management & Negotiation:
* Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to strengthen the company’s supply base.
* Negotiate favourable commercial and payment terms, ensuring best value while protecting cash flow.
* Build and maintain high‑performing supplier relationships that support operational requirements and long‑term business goals.
* Conduct supplier performance reviews and implement improvement plans where required.
Stakeholder Engagement & Influence:
* Work closely with internal stakeholders, Engineering, Projects, Finance, Operations to ensure procurement strategies align with business needs.
* Influence stakeholders at all levels, promoting best‑practice procurement and compliance.
* Support project teams with procurement strategies, tendering, bid evaluation, and contract negotiation.
Systems, Processes & Reporting:
* Use Sage X3 to manage purchasing activity, pricing, forecasting, and reporting.
* Lead improvements in procurement processes, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and strong governance.
* Prepare cost‑saving reports, supplier performance dashboards, and procurement KPIs for senior management.
Skills & Attributes:
* Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder‑influencing skills.
* Proven ability to deliver measurable cost savings and commercial improvements.
* Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
* Ability to work under pressure while maintaining accuracy and commercial focus.
* Excellent IT skills including Sage X3 and advanced Excel.
Experience & Qualifications:
* Extensive procurement experience within engineering, manufacturing, or construction sectors.
* Proven track record of supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost‑reduction delivery.
* Experience sourcing and onboarding new suppliers across multiple categories.
* Strong understanding of procurement best practice, risk management, and commercial governance.
* CIPS qualification (or working towards) is advantageous