At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic procurement for a major IT transformation programme and shape its delivery.
- Company: Dynamic IT-led business with international stakeholders and a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, hybrid working, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Opportunity to build supplier relationships from scratch and drive performance.
- Why this job: Take ownership of high-profile projects and define what good looks like in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in complex procurement projects and strong stakeholder management skills.
Based in Bolton, salary from £50,000 to £60,000. Here's a properly meaty procurement role. A major IT-led business transformation programme, international stakeholders, and enough scope to actually shape how it gets delivered. If you're a procurement professional who's outgrown the transactional stuff and wants ownership of something strategic and high-profile, keep reading.
You’ll lead procurement across the transformation programme end to end. Running strategic RFI and RFP activity to find the right market players and supply partners. Acting as senior procurement lead on the project, working directly with stakeholders to shape scope, build statements of work, and negotiate contracts that hold up under pressure. Building out a supplier relationship management strategy from scratch, and driving supplier performance once it’s live. This isn’t a role for someone who wants to be told what good looks like. You’ll be defining it.
What you’ll need:
- Solid experience running complex, strategic procurement projects or programmes, any sector background considered, IT or technology experience is a bonus, not a must
- Comfortable building and negotiating SOWs and commercial contracts
- Experience developing or running a supplier relationship management (SRM) approach
- Confidence leading RFI/RFP processes end to end
- Strong stakeholder management skills, especially across international teams
- Eligible for UK security clearance, British citizen or dual UK national with British citizenship
Hybrid working, two days a week on-site in Stevenage. Plus a strong benefits package, bonus up to £2,500, overtime, pension contributions up to 14%, up to 15 days flexi leave.
Lead Buyer - IT Transformation employer: Cirrus Selection Limited
Join a forward-thinking company in Stevenage or Bristol that champions inclusivity and innovation, recognised as a three-time gold investor in people award winner. With a commitment to employee development, state-of-the-art technology, and a vibrant campus environment, you will have the opportunity to grow your skills while contributing to groundbreaking combat air systems. Enjoy a friendly workplace culture with excellent benefits, including on-site amenities and a supportive community that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Buyer - IT Transformation
✨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 Cirrus Selection Limited.
✨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 Lead Buyer - IT Transformation
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 Cirrus Selection Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Cirrus Selection Limited. 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 Cirrus Selection Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cirrus Selection Limited
✨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 Cirrus Selection Limited!
✨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 Cirrus Selection Limited. 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 Cirrus Selection Limited's culture.
