Head of Procurement in Belfast

G1 Search has been exclusively retained to appoint a Head of Procurement on behalf of an award winning, family owned food production and manufacturing business based in Northern Ireland. With a strong reputation for quality, innovation and operational excellence, our client has established itself as a recognised leader within its sector, supplying major retail, foodservice and manufacturing customers across the UK and Ireland. As the business continues its ambitious growth journey, significant investment is being made in its people, leadership capability and operational infrastructure to support the next phase of development. The Opportunity This is a newly created strategic leadership position reporting directly to the Managing Director and forming part of the Senior Leadership Team. The successful candidate will lead the development of a best in class procurement function, shaping procurement strategy, strengthening supplier partnerships and introducing the systems, processes and commercial insight required to support a growing business. Working collaboratively across operations, finance, supply chain and production, this appointment will play a key role in enhancing commercial performance, managing supply risk and supporting long term business objectives. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement a strategic procurement function aligned with the company's growth plans. Lead commercial negotiations and build strong relationships across a diverse supplier base. Develop category strategies that optimise cost, quality, sustainability and supply resilience. Provide market intelligence and commercial insight to support sourcing and procurement decisions. Introduce procurement systems, governance and reporting to improve business performance. Partner with cross functional teams to support operational efficiency and new product initiatives. Identify opportunities to reduce risk, improve supplier performance and deliver measurable value. Required Experience Proven track record of leading a procurement function within the food production, food manufacturing or fresh produce sector. Strong commercial negotiation skills with experience managing strategic supplier relationships. Demonstrated experience developing procurement strategy and driving transformational change. Strong understanding of category management, supplier performance and procurement governance. Commercially astute with excellent analytical and financial awareness. Ability to influence senior stakeholders and build effective cross functional relationships. Experience operating within a fast paced manufacturing environment. CIPS qualification, or working towards one, would be advantageous. What's on Offer Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Opportunity to build and lead a strategic procurement function within a growing business. A key leadership role with direct influence on business strategy and decision making. Collaborative and values driven culture with a long term approach to growth. The opportunity to make a lasting impact within a successful and ambitious organisation. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced procurement leader seeking a strategic role within a well established and progressive business that continues to invest in its people, capability and future growth. If this opportunity aligns with your experience and career ambitions, we would welcome a confidential conversation. Skills: Procurement Supply Chain Supply Chain Management Procurement Strategy TPBN1_NI