At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex procurement projects and negotiate contracts to drive business value.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering and professional services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while collaborating with talented professionals in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in supply chain or related field; strong IT procurement experience required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to innovation and positive change.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
A little more about your role... Reporting to the Director, Procurement Europe; the Procurement Manager is a senior individual contributor responsible for leading complex procurement projects and delivering expert‑level procurement solutions across assigned corporate functions. This role combines deep procurement expertise, broad operational knowledge, and advanced analytical and negotiation skills to generate measurable business value for WSP. Acting as a process authority, the position supports the Director, Procurement Europe, and provides guidance to analysts and specialists in procurement execution, supplier negotiations, and compliance with procurement policies.
Responsibilities
- Lead high‑impact sourcing events and complex contract negotiations for non-global categories.
- Design and execute HUB focused procurement plans that are aligned with the objectives and evolving need of the business.
- Act as a trusted subject‑matter expert (SME) advising stakeholders on supplier markets, pricing trends, and competitive strategies.
- Partner with internal stakeholders to gather requirements, analyze spend data, and define procurement objectives that deliver measurable value.
- Own the end‑to‑end (E2E) procurement lifecycle, including RFx development, supplier evaluation, negotiation, contracting, and implementation.
- Resolve complex supplier and process challenges, delivering timely, compliant, and effective solutions.
- Mentor and coach procurement analysts and specialists, ensuring adherence to policies and best practices while building team capability.
- Provide strategic input to the Director on process improvements, tools, and templates; recommend initiatives to enhance efficiency and performance.
- Monitor and report key procurement metrics (savings, cost avoidance, cycle time, compliance) and present actionable insights to leadership.
- Ensure full compliance with procurement governance, policies, and ESG/supplier diversity standards across all procurement activities.
Digital Transformation and Process Optimization
- Driving ERP and application rollouts, deploying market‑specific programs, and collaborating closely with P2P to streamline processes, enhance compliance, and improve operational efficiency.
Scope of Knowledge & Decision‑Making
- Applies advanced sourcing and negotiation expertise with a deep understanding of operational environments across the region.
- Independently interprets and implements procurement policies, adapting them to meet evolving business needs.
- Demonstrates mastery by resolving complex challenges and mentoring analysts and specialists to build team capability.
- Serves as a trusted technical advisor to stakeholders and team members, providing strategic guidance and best practices.
Decision‑Making & Impact
- Exercises sound judgement in resolving non‑routine procurement challenges and setting work priorities daily.
- Makes decisions that directly influence operational performance and financial outcomes in the HUB.
- Provides strategic recommendations to management on supplier selection, risk mitigation, and process improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and value.
Complexity & Independent Judgement
- Leads high‑impact procurement projects and successfully manages multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.
- Exercises independent judgement in evaluating supplier proposals, assessing risk, and negotiating commercial terms.
- Partners with management to monitor quality, cost, and value, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
Leadership & Autonomy
- Operates with minimal supervision, demonstrating strong self‑direction and accountability.
- Serves as a team lead or process owner for assigned procurement activities and drives operational excellence.
- Provides technical guidance and mentorship to analysts and specialists, ensuring quality outcomes and timely delivery.
Innovation, Creativity & Problem‑Solving
- Demonstrates initiative and creativity in developing innovative procurement solutions that address complex business needs.
- Resolves challenging procurement and contractual issues, applying strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills.
- Advises management on procurement strategy enhancements and leads cross‑functional problem‑solving sessions to drive continuous improvement.
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate...
- Education: Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
- Professional Background: Experience of progressive procurement and sourcing experience, with a strong focus on IT.
- Technical Expertise: In‑depth knowledge of procurement processes, contract lifecycle management, supplier negotiations, and data‑driven analytics.
- Digital Proficiency: Skilled in ERP and leading procurement platforms such as Scanmarket, SAP Ariba, Coupa, and Oracle; experience driving adoption and optimisation of digital tools.
- Leadership & Collaboration: Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills; proven ability to influence and collaborate across functions.
- Governance & Sustainability: Solid understanding of ESG principles, supplier diversity programmes, and ethical procurement standards.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
About Us We are one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Work‑life balance: At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It's important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
- Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.
- Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits programme, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.
- Flex your time: To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the "WSP My Hour," allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
- Your development: We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.
#WeAreWSP Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
Procurement Manager, IT - Europe employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager, IT - Europe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who work at WSP or similar companies. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WSP's recent projects and their procurement strategies. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the interview.
✨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 serious about joining our team at WSP.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager, IT - Europe
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, especially in IT, and showcase your analytical and negotiation skills. We want to see how you can bring measurable value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how your background aligns with our values at WSP. Don’t forget to mention any innovative solutions you've implemented in past roles.
Showcase Your Digital Skills: Since we're all about digital transformation, make sure to highlight your proficiency with ERP systems and procurement platforms like SAP Ariba or Coupa. We love candidates who can drive adoption and optimisation of digital tools!
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 community at WSP!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in IT. Understand the latest trends in supplier markets and pricing strategies. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're the right fit for leading complex procurement projects.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex negotiations or resolved supplier challenges. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Procurement Manager, you'll need to mentor and guide others. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've developed team capabilities in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have in coaching analysts or specialists to ensure they adhere to best practices.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with WSP's values around inclusivity, sustainability, and community impact. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company.