Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement initiatives and manage supplier relationships in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Unilever, a global FMCG leader with iconic brands like Dove and Persil.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, potential for remote work, and access to corporate perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team making impactful decisions in a renowned company.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-month temporary role based in central London.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are currently seeking an interim IT Procurement Portfolio Lead, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, to become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.
The position is based at Blackfriars on London\’s Victoria Embankment, just a short walk from Blackfriars tube. This is a full-time temporary role for 12 months, requiring 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £96,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.
The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to adjustment based on business requirements.
The IT Procurement Portfolio Lead will be responsible for development and implementation of the sourcing strategy for IT in the areas of Infrastructure and Technical Services. This role will lead a team and be fully responsible for all global IT spend in areas which includes Cloud and Infrastructure foundation, Network and Mobile, Security Access Management as well as Employee Experience Tech Platform. In addition to being part of the IT procurement leadership team, the role holder will also be a member of the leadership team of the VP Infrastructure and TS.
In this portfolio, Unilever is more and more embarking on long term strategic relationships with global IT companies like Google, Microsoft, BT, Cisco etc. The role holder will build and drive relationships with these companies, and with key people in these companies over many years in a non-confrontative way, while still being able to represent and defend Unilever\’s interests.
Key Accountabilities
Partner with Tech foundation Leadership team to understand the business needs, bring deep expertise and insights and develop procurement sourcing strategy and supplier relationship management strategy.
Connect strategy & execution aligned to Unilever Compass, Global Divisions, Functions & Markets goals and priorities, aligned with Procurement Lighthouse Strategy and GDT Strategy.
Deliver against financial targets and other KPIs (including value delivery) as per business plan objectives, accountable for delivery of results from all markets across the globe, PMUs, Divisions and functions globally.
Develop and drive vendor rationalization in the set Portfolio at global level and market level by closely working with regional procurement leads, Enterprise Architect team, Product domain owners and Mirai Program Team.
Lead a geographically dispersed team to inspire, develop, and support our people, deliver results, and create and promote a healthy business culture.
As a member of Global IT procurement leadership team, he/she will be accountable to support to build the talent pipeline, nurture the TWGH culture towards Team Vision and Mission.
Lead rigorous execution of the priorities and transformation initiatives across the globe.
Ensure Portfolio fundamentals (i.e. data consistency, data insights, recurring stakeholder communications, contracts, etc.) are all put in place
Key Requirements
Extensive IT procurement experience, including proven and deep experience in software strategic sourcing
Strategic sourcing, portfolio strategy expertise, with experience in managing complex portfolio/category, at global or multi-regional level
Expert in negotiation and contracting
Understanding of supply market, value chain, and FMCG knowledge. Knowledge of Cloud Computing, Network, Infrastructure, portfolios and supply markets would be a strong plus.
Experience in strategic supplier relationship management. Experience with Microsoft, Google, ServiceNow and Oracle is a plus
Experience on large-scale project management
Demonstrated and proven leadership capabilities to lead a virtual global team
Experience in shaping and leading transformational business process reengineering, with experience driving Change Management initiatives.
Knowledge of and passion for sustainability, including social sustainability
A thought leader
A collaborative team player
Being able to work with strategic suppliers in an open and truly partnership approach, while still strongly representing Unilever\’s interests
Ability to work under pressure and in a complex global environment balancing a broad spectrum of stakeholder requirements
Comfortable working in conditions of ambiguity, and leading through constant change
Able to create and drive adoption and execution of a shared vision and strategy for change.
Ability to interact with senior stakeholders effectively and efficiently to understand their needs and deliver effective balanced solutions
Delivers change whilst managing the interface between \”day to day\” and improvement projects.
Passion for continuous improvement
Fluent in English, strong verbal and written communication skills, including creation and delivery of effective presentations
High financial and business acumen
Strong in selling ideas and concepts
Inspiring, motivational, and accountable people leader, able to lead remote and cross-cultural teams and connect people and ideas
Strong in project and time management for complex global projects
Stakeholder management and people skills
Passion and practical creativity
Tenacious and resilient in the pursuit of challenging goals
Job Info
Job Title:
Company:
Manpower
Location:
Posted:
Jul 25th 2025
Closes:
Aug 25th 2025
Sector:
Retail & Purchasing
Contract:
Temporary
Hours:
Full Time
Welcome to Fresh Jobs the place to find the freshest job vacancies and career advice.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
IT Procurement Portfolio Lead employer: Manpower
Contact Detail:
Manpower Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Procurement Portfolio Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Unilever's procurement processes and their approach to IT. Understanding their specific needs and challenges will help you tailor your discussions and demonstrate your value during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the FMCG sector, especially those who have experience with Unilever. Engaging with them on platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends in IT procurement and FMCG. Being knowledgeable about current technologies and market shifts will position you as a forward-thinking candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing IT procurement portfolios. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges and delivered results in similar roles.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Procurement Portfolio Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the IT Procurement Portfolio Lead position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in procurement and IT.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous roles in procurement, especially within the FMCG sector. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing portfolios and working in fast-paced environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that connects your background with Unilever's values and the specific demands of the role. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with a globally recognised brand.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial in procurement roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manpower
✨Understand the FMCG Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, especially Unilever's brands. Knowing their market position and recent developments can help you demonstrate your industry knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in IT procurement. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully managed portfolios, negotiated contracts, or implemented cost-saving strategies that align with the needs of a global client like Unilever.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
Given the fast-paced nature of the role, illustrate your ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples of how you've thrived in dynamic environments and how you can bring that agility to the team at Unilever.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have insightful questions ready to ask about Unilever's procurement strategies and challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values.
