Hybrid Procurement Manager

Our client, a national manufacturing company, is looking to recruit an experienced, innovative and efficient Hybrid Procurement Manager to be a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the organisation's purchasing activities and supplier relationships. The Procurement Manager reports directly to senior management and collaborates regularly with Category Buyers, Compliance, Inventory, and Finance teams to ensure integrated operations and achievement of strategic business priorities. This role drives procurement strategies that balance cost, quality, and availability, ensuring that the business's operational goals are met efficiently and effectively. The Procurement Manager leads a dynamic team, supports business growth, and maintains the highest standards in supplier management and product quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with overall business objectives, carefully balancing cost, quality, and availability of goods and services.
• Design, implement, and continuously improve procurement processes to drive operational efficiency, scalability, and adaptability to business needs.
• Create and deliver an annual procurement plan that outlines key objectives, key performance indicators (KPIs), and budget forecasts.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the Procurement team to support the achievement of revenue and margin targets, with a focus on maximising stock availability within inventory value limits.
• Act as the senior escalation point for supplier relationships, providing guidance and support to Category Buyers in their roles as primary supplier contacts.
• Oversee the organisation and execution of annual supplier reviews and performance management initiatives, engaging with relevant internal teams to drive improved supplier results.
• Establish and negotiate formal supplier agreements, ensuring that terms cover all necessary aspects such as pricing, payment schedules, notice periods, and exclusivity arrangements where appropriate.
• Collaborate closely with Compliance teams to manage supplier approvals, conduct ongoing reviews, and ensure strict adherence to all company policies and standards.
• Monitor and enforce that all procured products meet internal quality requirements and external standards, including BRC certification, resolving supplier issues promptly and effectively.
• Work closely with the Sales, Finance and Marketing teams to anticipate stock demands, ensuring alignment between forecasted needs and supply availability.
• Manage the end-to-end purchasing process, ensuring accurate orders, proper documentation, and timely payments.
• Oversee the Procurement team's interaction with the daily operations meeting.
• Reduce external spend by developing a reliable supplier base and alternative sourcing strategies for critical products.

As an ideal candidate you will have experience in a similar level role within the procurement and supply chain management, preferably within the food industry with the ability to manage supplier relationships.

Other specifications include:

• Passionate about driving innovation and continuous improvement in procurement practices.
• Strategic thinker and capable of leading procurement transformation initiatives, including system upgrades, supplier transitions, and process changes.
• Critical problem-solving ability and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Good attention to detail with the ability to analyse and interpret information.
• Results orientated with ability to plan and deliver against project deadlines.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire, influence, and lead cross-functional teams effectively.
• Excellent communicator, adept at building relationships across departments and with external partners.

In return, the company offers a very generous salary, a professional working environment, an excellent benefits package, 25 days holiday and the opportunity and support for career progression.