Procurement Manager

A successful and well-established family run supplier of educational supplies and hygiene products to schools across the Southeast are looking for an experienced Procurement Manager to join their team. You would be responsible for helping the business hit and exceed its growth targets through the successful optimisation of its procurement operations as well as fostering innovation in product development. Offering a salary of up to £60,000 plus company bonus plan, this is an attractive opportunity for a dynamic leader with exceptional negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage a diverse network of suppliers and distributors seamlessly. You will be expected to drive innovation, enhance product offerings, and make a significant impact on the company’s growth and success.

The Role

As Procurement Manager you would oversee the efficient operation of the procurement function, managing a team of 3 responsible for securing the best value for money while procuring goods and services to meet the company’s quality and cost objectives. You would create and implement procurement strategies that align with and support business growth objectives.

Key responsibilities will include…

• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers and distributors to ensure optimal cost, quality, and reliability
• Conduct in-depth research to identify and evaluate potential suppliers and new products, focusing on their ability to contribute to product innovation, and bring to market
• Monitor market trends and technological advancements to integrate cutting-edge solutions into product development processes
• Document, analyse, and report on procurement and product development initiatives
• Approve purchase orders and manage the timely delivery of goods and services
• Cultivate and maintain strategic, long-term relationships with suppliers and distributors, fostering collaboration and innovation

Required Experience

You must be able to demonstrate proven experience and a creditable track record as a Procurement Manager with a strong focus on creating and overseeing supply chain efficiencies and experience managing supplier relationships and leading procurement teams. Your background will include…

• Significant experience developing procurement strategies and managing budgets
• A focus on product development, collaborating with product design or R&D teams to bring new products to market
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and strategic planning skills
• Exceptional verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities
• Proficiency in the full MO suite, advanced data analysis tools and procurement software