At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing initiatives and negotiate long-term agreements with suppliers.
- Company: Acron Aviation, a forward-thinking partner in commercial aviation.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, private medical insurance, pension scheme, and flexible extras.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovating for safer skies.
- Why this job: Shape procurement strategies and drive real value in the aviation industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Acron Aviation is an agile commercial aviation partner with a long heritage of providing established, industry-certified solutions, as well as future-focused, data-driven innovations. With customers across the globe, our employees are committed to the company mission of innovating to create safer skies.
Acron Aviation’s integrated and global presence means we are uniquely positioned to deliver cutting-edge solutions to individuals and businesses in the aviation market. We provide technology and systems to enable quality pilot training. From distance learning systems applications and maintenance solutions to training devices and Full Flight Simulators ("FFS"), our technology covers the complete training spectrum.
We are seeking a results-driven Strategic Procurement Manager to lead high-impact sourcing initiatives, implement Long Term Agreements with our supplier base and drive long-term value across our supplier network. Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain & Operational Delivery, this role is pivotal in shaping our procurement strategy, optimising supplier relationships, and delivering measurable financial savings.
What to expect from Acron? We live by our values; Customer First, Move Fast, Own It and Speak Candidly and we are looking for talented people who can help us embody Our Vision to Innovate to create safer skies, and Our Mission to be the unconventional top tier, partner of choice for our customers.
A Few Of Our Employee Benefits Are:
- 25 days holiday per year (plus bank holidays), increasing with long service and with the opportunity to buy/sell up to 5 days
- Private medical insurance with optional family cover
- Pension scheme of up to 7% employer contribution
- Life Assurance 4x salary (flexible increase)
- Group income protection
- Flexible opt-in extras such as a health care cash plan, dental insurance, gym membership, critical illness cover and cycle to work scheme
- Employee assistance program providing mental health and wellbeing support
- Staff car park (incl. EV charging stations)
Key Responsibilities:
- Negotiate Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) - Drive the implementation of LTAs with a range of strategic suppliers that secure competitive pricing, service levels, and long-term value.
- Lead Request for Proposals (RFPs) - Manage end-to-end RFP processes, including scope definition, supplier selection, evaluation, and award recommendations.
- Supplier Base Optimisation - Rationalise the supplier portfolio to reduce complexity, improve efficiency, and enhance strategic partnerships.
- Cost Reduction & Value Delivery - Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and service standards.
- Stakeholder Collaboration - Partner with internal teams (e.g., Finance, Operations, Commercial, Quality) to align procurement strategies with business goals.
- Market Intelligence & Risk Management - Monitor market trends, assess supplier risks, and ensure continuity of supply through proactive planning.
- Manage Supplier Relationship – Develop and maintain productive and mutually beneficial relationship with designated suppliers by serving as the principal point of contact and relationship owner. Leading Quarterly Business Reviews and supporting the wider Supply Chain team with escalations as required.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Proven experience in strategic procurement (direct and indirect), sourcing, or supply chain management.
- Strong negotiation skills with a track record of delivering supplier contracts / LTAs as well as associated cost savings.
- Expertise in managing RFPs and supplier evaluations.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Professional certifications (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) are a plus.
Please note: All candidates who wish to be considered for this vacancy must have the right to work in the UK.
Strategic Procurement Manager in Crawley employer: Acron Aviation
Acron Aviation is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and employee well-being, offering a dynamic work environment where values such as Customer First and Move Fast are at the forefront. With comprehensive benefits including 25 days of holiday, private medical insurance, and a strong pension scheme, employees are supported in both their professional and personal lives. The company fosters growth through strategic procurement initiatives, providing opportunities for career advancement while contributing to the mission of creating safer skies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Procurement Manager in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aviation industry, especially those connected to Acron Aviation. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Acron Aviation’s values and mission. Think about how your experience aligns with their goal of innovating for safer skies. Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve driven value in previous roles – they’ll love hearing about your strategic procurement successes!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves negotiating Long-Term Agreements, it’s crucial to demonstrate your expertise. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen your techniques. Show them you can secure competitive pricing while maintaining quality.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Acron team. Let’s get you that Strategic Procurement Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Procurement Manager in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Strategic Procurement Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in strategic procurement, negotiation skills, and any successful cost-saving initiatives you've led. We want to see how you can bring value to Acron Aviation!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the aviation industry and how your values align with Acron's mission. We love seeing candidates who embody our values of Customer First and Move Fast.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don't just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've optimised supplier relationships or delivered measurable financial savings in previous roles. Numbers speak volumes, so include them where possible!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acron Aviation
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your strategic procurement knowledge. Understand the key concepts like Long-Term Agreements (LTAs), Request for Proposals (RFPs), and supplier relationship management. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you've secured competitive pricing or improved service levels. Acron Aviation values strong negotiation skills, so be ready to share specific outcomes and how they benefited your previous employers.
✨Understand Acron's Values
Familiarise yourself with Acron Aviation’s core values: Customer First, Move Fast, Own It, and Speak Candidly. Think of ways you can demonstrate these values in your work and how they align with your own professional ethos during the interview.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Collaboration Questions
Since this role involves working closely with various internal teams, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with stakeholders in the past. Highlight your communication skills and any strategies you've used to align procurement goals with broader business objectives.
