At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the materials supply chain, negotiate with suppliers, and ensure compliance.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in Kettering with a focus on growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related bonus, and flexible working options after probation.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving continuous improvement and fostering strong supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency in MS Office.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 46000 £ per year.
Location: Kettering, onsite (1-2 days hybrid working considered on successful completion of 6-month onsite probationary period)
Salary: Up to £40,000 per annum + eligibility for a performance-related bonus
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent
Working Hours: 40 Hours Per week
About the role: We are looking for an experienced Procurement Manager to take full responsibility for our materials supply chain. You will oversee everything from forecasting material requirements to sourcing suppliers, purchasing, and negotiating favourable pricing and terms. You will also be responsible for managing and upholding compliance to existing and new accreditations (where relevant). We are looking for someone who can strike the right balance between firmness and partnership. You will need to be confident and assertive when negotiating with suppliers to secure the best possible terms, while also maintaining professionalism and respect to build strong, long-term relationships. The ideal candidate will know when to push for better pricing or performance and when to collaborate for mutual benefit, fostering supplier partnerships that support reliability, quality, and growth for both sides. We are looking for someone who is proactive and self-motivated - someone who takes ownership of their work and enjoys making things happen. You will be trusted to manage your area with confidence, using your initiative to identify opportunities, solve problems, and suggest improvements. This role suits someone who takes pride in driving continuous improvement and can be a 'leader' of their area of expertise. As part of a small team, you will also be ready to lend a hand in other areas when needed, covering for colleagues during times of absence, and being comfortable speaking directly with customers to ensure smooth operations and excellent service.
Key Responsibilities:
- Forecast and plan material requirements based on production and sales needs
- Source, evaluate, and manage supplier relationships
- Negotiate pricing, contracts, and payment terms to achieve best value
- Raise and manage purchase orders, tracking deliveries and resolving issues
- Maintain accurate procurement and stock records
- Collaborate with operations, sales, and finance teams to ensure seamless supply
- Provide support in other areas of the business as needed, including customer communication
- Track and record quality complaints to monitor supplier performance, addressing any areas of concern as required
- Analyse outstanding orders and forecasts to understand potential material shortages and make informed buying decisions
About you:
- Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management
- Strong negotiation and communication skills
- Organised and detail-oriented, with a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Comfortable working independently and taking full ownership of your area
- Flexible and team-minded - happy to step in and help wherever needed
- Must be proficient in using all MS Office packages, notably Excel
- Excellent attention to detail, able to spot discrepancies and potential errors
- Experience in print or paper preferred
Additional Information:
You must have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this vacancy. Recruitment agencies need not apply. Please confirm your current notice period when submitting your application. Candidates with experience or relevant job titles of: Procurement Lead, Head of Procurement, Sourcing Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Category Manager, Strategic Sourcing Manager, may also be considered.
Procurement Manager employer: Anonymous
Contact Detail:
Anonymous Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge about their operations and how you can add value as a Procurement Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role requires strong negotiation abilities, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor. This will help you feel more confident when discussing terms and pricing during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement, purchasing, and supply chain management. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of your negotiation skills and how you've built strong supplier relationships in the past.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to mention times when you’ve proactively solved problems or improved processes. We love candidates who take ownership and drive continuous improvement!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anonymous
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Procurement Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of pricing and cost analysis. Brush up on key metrics related to procurement and be ready to discuss how you've successfully negotiated terms in the past. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of past negotiations where you achieved favourable outcomes. Highlight your ability to balance firmness with partnership, as this role requires building strong supplier relationships while also pushing for the best deals. Practise articulating these experiences clearly.
✨Demonstrate Proactivity
The ideal candidate is proactive and self-motivated. Be ready to share instances where you took the initiative to solve problems or improve processes. This could be anything from streamlining procurement procedures to identifying new suppliers that enhanced quality or reduced costs.
✨Team Player Mindset
Since the role involves collaborating with various teams, emphasise your flexibility and willingness to support others. Prepare to discuss how you've worked cross-functionally in the past and how you can contribute to a team environment, especially during busy periods or when covering for colleagues.