At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage stakeholder relationships in the UK rail industry.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team transforming the railway sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy 75% off rail travel, a bonus, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working model with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of rail while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement and stakeholder management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 55596 - 67813 £ per year.
Location: London (Puddle Dock) or Basingstoke (Hybrid)
Salary: £55,596 - £67,813 + Discretionary Bonus & Excellent Benefits
The Opportunity:
Play a key leadership role at the forefront of change within the UK rail industry. We are seeking a strategic Senior Procurement Manager to join our Southern region team. This is not just a buying role; you will be a true business partner, shaping high-value procurement strategies and providing expert commercial advice to senior stakeholders during a pivotal time of transformation. This is a flexible role where you can be aligned to either a business partnering function with people management responsibilities or a delivery-focused position on major, complex projects, depending on your strengths.
Key Responsibilities:
- Act as a senior business partner, managing complex stakeholder relationships and developing procurement pipelines.
- Lead and manage a small team of procurement professionals.
- Develop and execute end-to-end procurement strategies for major projects and complex frameworks, from initial requirement shaping through to contract award.
- Provide commercial expertise and a strategic lens to the business, ensuring value for money and driving efficiencies in a regulated environment.
- Manage the governance and assurance process for procurements, with a delegated authority of up to £5 million.
About You:
- A strategic procurement professional with a track record of delivering high-value works or services procurements.
- Demonstrable experience in stakeholder management, with the ability to influence and advise senior leaders.
- Strong knowledge of public procurement regulations is very important.
- A leadership mindset, with an interest in developing people and driving team improvements.
- Experience from regulated industries such as rail, utilities, or other major infrastructure projects is beneficial.
Why Join Us?
- Incredible Benefits: Enjoy 75% off rail travel, a discretionary bonus, and an excellent pension scheme (defined benefit after 5 years).
- Career Development: We are invested in our people. This role offers a clear path for succession and access to fantastic training opportunities.
- Work-Life Balance: We offer a flexible, hybrid working model (3 days in the office, no set days) and a supportive team culture.
- Make an Impact: Be part of a dynamic team and play a crucial role in shaping the future of the railway.
Rail Procurement Manager employer: Carrington West
Carrington West is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With a strong focus on improving residential environments in Harlow, team members benefit from competitive daily rates and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that positively impact the community. The collaborative culture fosters innovation and supports professional advancement, making it an attractive place for experienced project managers looking to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rail Procurement Manager
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Carrington West.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Rail Procurement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Carrington West:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Carrington West. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Carrington West.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington West
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Carrington West!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Carrington West. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Carrington West's culture.
