Procurement Manager

We are looking for an experienced Procurement Manager to join our clients dynamic Supply Chain team. Reporting directly to the Head of Supply Chain, this position requires managing and supporting a growing team of 5 Buyers specialising in kitting, MRO, and sub-contracting, and 2 Procurement Coordinators so it is imperative that you have managed people. This role involves overseeing the day-to-day procurement function, optimising processes, mentoring and developing team performance while managing a growing £30m spend portfolio. You will be based on site in Stevenage. My client is an established and growing global organisation that works within the electronics distribution sector working with clients within the Defence, Aerospace, Automotive and Medical sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Team Management: Manage, mentor, and develop a procurement team of 7, encouraging an approachable, supportive, and performance-driven culture. Act as the lead facilitator between the Head of Supply Chain and the procurement team, ensuring clear communication, effective delegation, and timely project execution. Develop and monitor KPIs to maintain team agility and ensure high performance standards.
• Strategic Procurement: Execute strategic sourcing initiatives aimed at cost reduction, risk management, and quality enhancement.
• Supplier Relationships and Management: Negotiate pricing, contract terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers. Develop and execute procurement strategies to secure competitive pricing and mitigate supply chain disruption risks. Identify, evaluate, and develop relationships with suppliers, ensuring they meet quality, cost, supply chain solutions and delivery expectations. Oversee key vendor contract management, including sub-contractor management ensuring contract pricing is managed effectively. Monitor supplier performance through established metrics for delivery, quality, and compliance.
• Stakeholder Relationships and Engagement: Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including Project Managers, Head of Operations, Business Development Manager, and Sales Account Managers. Work with the company’s franchised and global sourcing team to strengthen the supply chain offering to customers and fulfilment of projects. Ensure alignment and successful delivery of procurement objectives across departments.
• Market Intelligence & Process Improvement: Drive continuous improvement efforts, streamlining workflows and refining procurement strategies. Stay informed on market trends, technology advancements, and supplier capabilities. Leverage market intelligence to maintain competitive advantages and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Inventory & Cost Management: Ensure effective stock control and lean inventory management. Maintain accurate contract pricing with suppliers for imports in the ERP system to support seamless planning and scheduling. Analyse material PPV opportunities. Achieve established cost savings and improved gross profit targets.

Experience & Requirements:

• Minimum 5-7 years of procurement experience in electronic components or contract manufacturing environments.
• Previous managerial experience with a proven ability to lead procurement teams.
• Established track record of successful supplier negotiation, cost savings, and supply chain optimisation.
• CIPS Qualification is desirable.

Technical Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of electronic components, including trends, pricing, and key suppliers.
• Expertise in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Understanding of inventory management and supply chain processes in electronics manufacturing.
• Understanding of contract manufacturing, kitting or distribution (required).
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems.

Skills & Attributes:

• Excellent analytical skills with ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder management.
• Strategic thinker with proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• Detail-oriented with strong organisational capabilities.
• Team player who thrives in fast-paced environments.

Key Measures of Success:

• Development and retention of a high-performing procurement team.
• Achievement of cost savings and improved Gross Profit targets.
• Effective stock control and lean inventory management.
• High compliance with contractual KPIs and risk management standards.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Performance-based bonus potential.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing, innovative company that is shaping the future of procurement solutions in the aerospace and defence sectors.
• Hours of work 8.30 – 5pm.

Please note this is an office-based role. Despite our best efforts it is not always possible to respond to every application individually due to the high volume of responses we receive on each vacancy. Only candidates who are short listed will be contacted for this particular role and if you have not heard from us within 7 days please assume that you have not been successful. However, we will keep your details on our database, and will contact you when other suitable positions come in.