Global Head of Strategic Sourcing in Manchester

We are seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Global Head of Strategic Sourcing to lead the firm’s global procurement strategy and supplier ecosystem. This senior leadership role is accountable for shaping and delivering a sourcing vision that supports the firm’s operational priorities, drives value, enhances risk management, and strengthens supplier performance worldwide. The role also has oversight of the firm’s global Travel strategy and relationships with Travel Management Companies.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a global sourcing function at the heart of a leading legal brand. You will shape supplier strategy, drive innovation, and play a pivotal role in supporting outstanding client service and operational excellence across the firm.

• Strategic Leadership
  • Develop and execute a global sourcing and procurement strategy aligned with business needs, risk appetite, and long‑term commercial objectives.
  • Lead end‑to‑end sourcing for major spend categories, including technology, legal tech, professional services, facilities, and travel.
  • Identify opportunities for value creation, cost optimisation, innovation, and process improvement across the supplier base.
  • Oversee approaches to supplier risk, sustainability, diversity, and regulatory compliance, working closely with legal, risk, and compliance teams.
• Vendor & Supplier Management
  • Oversee vendor onboarding and ensure clear communication of performance expectations.
  • Implement robust supplier evaluation, performance review, and risk assessment processes.
  • Build strong, strategic supplier relationships that drive service excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Monitor vendor compliance with privacy, ethical, legal, and security requirements, managing risk across the supply chain.
• Operational Excellence
  • Resolve supplier issues, disputes, or service failures in a timely, commercially informed manner.
  • Maintain accurate records of contracts, performance data, compliance checks, and spend analysis.
  • Champion the use of digital tools and data analytics to enhance procurement capability and decision‑making.
  • Set and report on relevant KPIs to executive leadership, ensuring accountability for delivery and value.
• Leadership & Collaboration
  • Lead and develop a high‑performing global procurement team, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation.
  • Partner with leaders across Finance, IT, the Global Innovation Office, HR, Facilities, and client‑facing teams to align sourcing priorities with organisational needs.
  • Stay informed of market trends, supply chain risks, and regulatory developments affecting procurement and vendor management in the legal sector and beyond.

You will bring:

• Significant experience (typically 10+ years) in global strategic sourcing, procurement, or vendor management within a complex organisation; professional services experience is advantageous.
• A proven track record of shaping and delivering high‑impact sourcing strategies.
• Strong commercial and analytical skills, with deep expertise in negotiation and supplier management.
• Experience managing supplier risk, sustainability, and compliance in regulated environments.
• Demonstrated leadership capability across geographies and cultures.
• Excellent communication, relationship‑building, and influencing skills with senior stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s degree required; postgraduate or professional certification (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) preferred.

Freshfields is an equal opportunities employer and all applications received by the firm will be considered by the firm on the basis of their merit alone and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background. All offers of employment will be conditional on the candidate having/securing the right to work in the UK and providing the firm with evidence of that right (as required by the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006) prior to employment commencing. Freshfields is a Ban the Box employer. We ask applicants to disclose criminal convictions only when a conditional job offer is made. A conviction does not automatically lead to withdrawal of the offer: we make decisions on a case by case basis and take a number of factors into account (eg the role you are applying for and the circumstances of the offence). You would have the opportunity to discuss the matter with us before we make a decision.