Indirect Procurement Manager

Are you a proactive procurement professional who thrives in a high‑energy, “on-the-ground” environment rather than being tucked away in a corporate office? We are partnering with a leading Rail Specialist in Milton Keynes that is currently experiencing a period of significant growth and a busy order book. This is a pivotal role where you will take full ownership of the indirect spend function. Managing a broad portfolio (from IT and facilities to building maintenance and consumables) you will manage sourcing activities and mentor a direct report to ensure operational excellence. With over 400 staff on-site, this is a fast‑paced, “blue‑collar” manufacturing environment where your work directly impacts the heartbeat of the production floor.

Responsibilities

• Sourcing Activity: Execute sourcing for all indirect spend areas to optimise cost, quality, and service, supporting the wider procurement goals.
• Supplier Management: Manage the sourcing lifecycle, including RFQs and contract renewals, while maintaining strong performance from key suppliers.
• Operational Leadership: Line manage an Indirect Procurement Associate, supporting their training and professional development.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with the Strategic Procurement Manager to support new contract negotiations, and align with Facilities Management (FM) to ensure building contractors are H&S compliant.
• Process Improvement: Drive the use of SAP to maintain accurate purchasing records and identify cost‑saving opportunities through data insights.
• Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities meet strict industry standards and internal company policies.

The Candidate

• Experience: Minimum of 5+ years in a procurement role, ideally within a manufacturing, production, or engineering environment.
• Leadership: Previous line management experience (or the demonstrable ability to mentor others) is essential.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in ERP systems (specifically SAP) and Microsoft Office.
• Attributes: A “can‑do” attitude is a must. You should be comfortable donning a hi‑viz jacket, walking the shop floor, and building relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Qualifications: CIPS is advantageous but not essential; our client values relevant skills and industry experience.

Location Milton Keynes (commutable from Bedford, Northampton, Luton, and surrounding areas).

Salary Up to £51,000 + 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays). Note: This role offers the opportunity for 3 days remote working per week following the successful completion of a 6‑month probation period.

Equal Opportunity Statement We are a Disability‑Confident employer committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, or political beliefs. We will treat everyone equally, maintain an ongoing review of recruitment processes to avoid discrimination, and ensure staff respect and comply with this policy.