At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for IT and software, driving value and excellence across the organisation.
- Company: Leading Managed Services Provider with a focus on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a rapidly expanding company with a collaborative culture and career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape procurement strategy and make a significant impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT procurement, strong negotiation skills, and excellent stakeholder management.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid / London
Salary: £70,000-80,000, depending on experience.
Our client is a leading Managed Services Provider with a comprehensive and rapidly expanding portfolio spanning Cloud, Security, Networking & Connectivity, Mobile, Voice, and Data & AI. As part of their continued growth and transformation, they are seeking an experienced Procurement Lead to take ownership of a critical category and play a key role in driving commercial value across the group. This is a high-impact role offering the chance to shape procurement strategy across a complex, multi-entity organization.
You will lead the IT and software distribution category, working closely with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and procurement colleagues to deliver consistency, value, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Take full ownership of the IT and software distribution category across the group
- Lead sourcing activities, including RFPs, supplier selection, and contract negotiations
- Act as the primary point of contact for suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Align pricing, volumes, commercial terms, and service level agreements across business units
- Track and manage supplier performance, contractual compliance, rebates, and risks through standardised reporting
- Coordinate supplier accreditations and partnership programmes across the organisation
- Collaborate with and support Lead Buyers across other categories and business units
- Drive consistency in sourcing processes, templates, supplier tracking, and reporting
- Consolidate procurement dashboards and KPIs at a group level
- Facilitate knowledge sharing and promote best practice across the procurement function
- Provide hands‑on support to key projects where required
Experience Required
- Proven experience in procurement within IT, technology, or a managed services environment
- Strong background in sourcing, RFP processes, and contract negotiation
- Experience managing supplier relationships and driving commercial outcomes
- Ability to operate at both strategic and operational levels
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Highly organized with strong analytical and reporting capabilities
Must be eligible to work in the UK. Hybrid working – London office.
Procurement Lead employer: Context Recruitment
As a leading Managed Services Provider, our company offers an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working in vibrant London. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that values your contributions and empowers you to drive impactful procurement strategies across a diverse portfolio.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Lead
✨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 Context Recruitment.
✨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 Procurement Lead
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 Context Recruitment:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Context Recruitment. 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 Context Recruitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Context Recruitment
✨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 Context Recruitment!
✨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 Context Recruitment. 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 Context Recruitment's culture.
