At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement operations, optimise processes, and manage systems for efficiency.
- Company: Join Springer Nature, a global leader in knowledge sharing for over 180 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing procurement practices in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement systems, data analysis, and project management required.
- Other info: Applications from candidates with disabilities are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: London - Hybrid Working Model
Application Deadline: Sunday 13th July 2025
About Springer Nature:
Springer Nature opens the doors to discovery for researchers, educators, clinicians and other professionals. Every day, around the globe, our imprints, books, journals, platforms and technology solutions reach millions of people. For over 180 years our brands and imprints have been a trusted source of knowledge to these communities.
About the Role:
In this new position reporting into the VP Global Procurement you will be responsible for enhancing operational efficiency through the design, implementation and monitoring of best practice processes, technology, reporting and governance across the procurement function. This will include supporting the Procurement Category Directors to deliver against targets committed with the business stakeholders, ensuring best practice is documented, shared and consistently applied across the Central Procurement team and communicated to key stakeholders and standardizing data consistently across Procurement for analysis and reporting. This role can be in our Kings Cross London offices on a hybrid working model.
Role Responsibilities:
- Process optimization and standardization – Process mapping, developing and standardising procurement processes and aligning of processes with other functional areas.
- System and tool management including being the product owner of the procurement ‘Source to Contract’ tools and systems, digital solution scouting, system integration and tool optimization.
- Data Analysis and Reporting - Spend Analysis, metrics and reporting, refining existing team management tools and working with other corporate areas to identify available data.
- Project Management and change management of existing/new initiatives that cut across categories, overseeing the continuous improvement of procurement processes and systems.
- Create and develop training materials and programs for procurement staff and share knowledge across procurement teams.
- Supporting the Central Procurement management team with strategic planning, category management and risk management as well as promoting awareness of and developing the procurement policy.
Experience, Skills & Qualifications:
Essential
- Significant demonstrable Procurement and procurement system experience.
- Knowledge, experience and understanding of Source-to-Pay processes & technology (e.g. Spend Analytics, eSourcing, Implementation/Roll out of Indirect Purchase Orders, etc.).
- Data analysis and reporting.
- Project management and delivery of change.
- Implementing and documenting processes.
- Demonstrated experience working with cross functional teams in a complex, changing environment to implement best practice and deliver change.
- Interpersonal, communications, rapport-building and influencing skills.
- Critical thinking.
- Business process mapping, optimization and management.
- Ability to manage multiple projects in parallel.
- Undergraduate degree and/or MCIPS qualified.
Desirable
- Knowledge of SAP and Ariba would be a distinct advantage.
Springer Nature is a Disability Confident Committed Employer and we encourage applications from candidates with disabilities. If you consider yourself to have a disability or learning difficulty and wish to submit your application in an alternative format or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments during the application and interview process, please get in touch either by phone or by email so we can make any necessary arrangements.
At Springer Nature we value the diversity of our teams. We recognize the many benefits of a diverse workforce with equitable opportunities for everyone. We strive for an inclusive workplace that empowers all our colleagues to thrive.
For more information about career opportunities in Springer Nature please visit our careers page.
Job Posting End Date: 13-07-2025
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Procurement Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement technology, especially tools related to Source-to-Pay processes. Being knowledgeable about systems like SAP and Ariba can give you an edge during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in process optimisation and project management. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully implemented changes that improved efficiency in procurement operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your data analysis skills. The role requires refining management tools and reporting metrics, so be ready to share how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your interpersonal and communication skills. This position involves working with cross-functional teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've built rapport and influenced stakeholders in previous projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Procurement Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Procurement Operations position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as process optimization, data analysis, and project management.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and system management. Emphasise your knowledge of Source-to-Pay processes and any specific tools like SAP or Ariba that you have worked with.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background to the role. Discuss how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly in enhancing operational efficiency and managing cross-functional teams.
Highlight Soft Skills: In your application, don't forget to showcase your interpersonal and communication skills. These are crucial for building rapport and influencing stakeholders, which are essential aspects of the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Understand the Procurement Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in procurement, especially around Source-to-Pay processes. Being able to discuss these topics will show your depth of knowledge and commitment to the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of past projects where you successfully managed change or optimised processes. Highlight your ability to work with cross-functional teams and how you navigated challenges during these projects.
✨Showcase Your Data Analysis Expertise
Be ready to discuss your experience with data analysis and reporting. Bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve procurement processes, as this is a key aspect of the role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be prepared to discuss how you've built rapport with stakeholders in previous roles.