At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and supplier relationships for innovative technology projects.
- Company: Fortescue Zero, a leader in advanced engineering and electrification solutions.
- Benefits: Inclusive culture, career growth, and the chance to impact global sustainability.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to decarbonising operations and driving innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement in a fast-growing tech environment.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Fortescue Zero is at the forefront of advanced engineering and technology, developing high-voltage power systems, advanced battery software and electrification solutions for some of the world's most demanding applications. Our technology and engineering expertise extends across heavy industry, defense and elite motorsport, with involvement in global championships including Formula 1, Formula E, IMSA and the World Endurance Championship.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to help shape the contract and procurement capability that will support Fortescue Zero as it continues to innovate, grow and scale.
About the role
This role will lead the contracts and procurement function across Fortescue Zero, shaping the capability, supplier landscape and sourcing strategies required to support a fast-growing technology business. This is an opportunity to build and transform capability, leading a global team and working across a broad supplier network. You will have significant influence over how Fortescue Zero sources, negotiates and delivers the parts, goods and services required by our product and programme teams. The role requires strategic procurement leadership with hands-on commercial judgement, you will help the business scale while improving cost, quality, delivery, governance, and supplier performance.
What you will do
- Lead the strategic direction and performance of Fortescue Zero's global procurement function, building the capability required to support a rapidly evolving technology business.
- Develop and execute procurement, sourcing, category, and supplier strategies aligned to current and future product and programme requirements.
- Lead key supplier relationships and complex commercial negotiations, ensuring the right outcomes across cost, quality, delivery, and risk.
- Oversee procurement performance and governance across major programmes, proactively managing supplier, commercial, quality, and schedule risks.
- Drive continuous improvement across procurement systems, data, analytics, and processes to improve efficiency, transparency, and decision-making.
- Provide trusted commercial and procurement leadership to program and group levels, executives and the Board, supporting strategic decisions and business growth.
About you
- Significant senior leadership experience across procurement, supply chain, commercial or related functions within the automotive, mining, industrial, heavy engineering, defence, aerospace or a related sector.
- Have led large teams and substantial purchasing portfolios, with proven ability to build, scale or transform procurement capability within a growth-oriented, dynamic organisation.
- Strong track record of complex supplier negotiations, commercial decision-making, program sourcing strategies, and supplier management.
- Strong commercial judgement and experience managing supplier, contractual, cost, delivery, and business risk.
- Credibility operating at executive level, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and present effectively to C-suite and Board audiences.
- Relevant degree-level qualification, with experience of procurement technology platforms and professional procurement qualifications highly regarded.
About Us
Be part of something big. Fortescue is leading the world with our plan to decarbonise our iron ore operations, projects that harness renewable energy and the development of technology that will change our planet forever.
Our Commitment
Fortescue celebrates individual strengths and team members are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. Our global workforce drives and promotes an inclusive culture, both within our organisation and throughout the communities we interact with. Diverse backgrounds include First Nations Peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, gender, neurodiverse, cultural diversity, all age groups, and those with an intersectional or multiple diverse characteristics. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Fortescue reserves the right to close applications early should a suitable pool of candidates be identified. Fortescue will never contact you to ask for payment of any kind, whether directly or through a third party.
Head Of Procurement - Fortescue Zero in Harwell employer: Fortescue
Fortescue offers an exceptional work environment for the Cost Cap Finance Lead role, situated in the vibrant motorsports hub of Kidlington, UK. With a strong emphasis on employee development and a collaborative culture, team members are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to innovative projects like Formula E. The company also provides competitive benefits and a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering partnership with Jaguar TCS Racing, making it an exciting place for those passionate about finance and motorsports.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Procurement - Fortescue Zero in Harwell
✨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 Fortescue.
✨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 Head Of Procurement - Fortescue Zero in Harwell
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 Fortescue:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Fortescue. 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 Fortescue.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fortescue
✨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 Fortescue!
✨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 Fortescue. 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 Fortescue's culture.
