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- Tasks: Lead IT procurement activities and develop strategies for digital transformation.
- Company: Join a top private rail operator known for quality and customer service.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, development opportunities, and a collaborative culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in IT procurement while shaping the future of UK rail.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-value IT procurement and knowledge of procurement legislation required.
- Other info: CIPS qualification is a plus; strong Excel skills needed.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
My client is a leading private sector rail operator, known for delivering a high-quality, efficient, and customer-centric service. As they continue to invest in their technology infrastructure and commercial capability, they are looking to hire an experienced Procurement Manager with a specialist focus on IT and digital procurement. This is a critical role in their evolving procurement team, reporting into the Head of Procurement and offering the opportunity to lead strategic sourcing activity in a regulated yet commercially dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver end-to-end IT procurement activity in line with Procurement Act 2023 (formerly UCR 2016).
- Develop IT category strategies aligned to technology and digital transformation priorities.
- Ensure full compliance with procurement policy, governance and external legislation.
- Draft and manage tender documentation, commercial models, evaluation criteria, and contract terms.
- Partner with stakeholders across IT, legal, finance, and operations to define procurement needs and shape sourcing strategies.
- Manage commercial negotiations and ensure robust, value-driven supplier contracts.
- Benchmark supply markets, drive innovation, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Monitor supplier performance and manage risk through structured SRM and KPI frameworks.
- Optimise use of procurement systems including e-sourcing and P2P platforms.
- Collaborate with Group Procurement functions on joint initiatives and best practice sharing.
Key Skills & Experience
- Significant experience managing complex, high-value IT procurement projects within a regulated or infrastructure-led environment.
- Strong working knowledge of UCR 2016 and/or Procurement Act 2023 (PA23) with demonstrable experience leading compliant tenders.
- Skilled in drafting commercial documents and negotiating supplier contracts.
- In-depth understanding of technology categories such as cloud, SaaS, infrastructure, and professional services.
- Background in rail, transport or utilities sectors is advantageous.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- Data-led approach with strong Excel and spend analysis capabilities.
- Experience using P2P or procurement systems.
- Ideally CIPS-qualified or actively working toward accreditation.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
- Join a commercially focused procurement team playing a key role in IT and digital transformation within UK rail.
- Shape the strategic sourcing approach across business-critical technology categories.
- Enjoy a collaborative culture with hybrid working, development opportunities, and a high-impact remit.
IT Procurement Manager employer: Cedar
Contact Detail:
Cedar Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Procurement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2023 and UCR 2016. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and governance in procurement.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the rail, transport, or utilities sectors. Engaging with industry peers can provide insights into current trends and challenges, making you a more informed candidate during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills by preparing examples of past successful supplier contracts you've managed. Being able to articulate your approach to achieving value-driven agreements will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your experience with procurement systems, especially e-sourcing and P2P platforms. Familiarity with these tools is crucial for optimising procurement processes and will be a key talking point in your conversations.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Procurement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in IT procurement, especially any projects that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing complex procurement activities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your background in regulated environments and your knowledge of UCR 2016 or Procurement Act 2023 make you a strong candidate. Be sure to mention your stakeholder engagement skills and how they can benefit the team.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in drafting commercial documents and negotiating contracts. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven cost-saving initiatives in previous roles.
Highlight Continuous Learning: If you're working towards CIPS accreditation, mention this in your application. It shows your commitment to professional development and aligns with the company's focus on a collaborative culture and development opportunities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2023 and UCR 2016. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations impact procurement processes, as demonstrating your knowledge will show that you are well-versed in compliance.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you secured value-driven contracts. Highlight your approach to managing supplier relationships and how you ensure performance aligns with contractual obligations.
✨Understand Technology Categories
Brush up on your knowledge of key technology categories such as cloud services, SaaS, and infrastructure. Be ready to discuss how these areas relate to the company's digital transformation goals.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Think about how you've successfully collaborated with various stakeholders in previous roles. Prepare to share specific instances where your communication skills influenced senior-level decisions or shaped sourcing strategies.
