Global Head of Indirect Procurement, IT, R&D in Watford

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor and proactive thought partner to CIO and R&D leadership.
• Co-develop procurement strategies that directly support enterprise transformation.
• Lead a global portfolio spanning IT, Digital, Software, Infrastructure, R&D, and Clinical services.
• Own the development and execution of category strategies that unlock value.
• Lead and develop a high-performing global team.
• Maintain deep, real-time understanding of key supplier relationships and commercial structures.
• Establish disciplined approaches to monitoring, performance tracking, and continuous optimisation of strategic partnerships.
• Lead complex, global commercial engagements, including AI initiatives and ERP transformations.
• Act as a leader in 'procurement in the age of AI', shaping procurement and supplier strategies.
• Proactively manage commercial, regulatory, data privacy, cybersecurity, and third-party risk across IT and R&D ecosystems.
• Shape operating models, processes, and tools that support scalable, high-impact procurement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required (business, technology, engineering, or related field).
• 15+ years of experience in procurement, technology, or related commercial leadership roles.
• Demonstrated experience leading global or matrixed teams and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Deep experience across IT and/or R&D procurement, including software, cloud, digital, infrastructure, data, or clinical services.
• Strong understanding of modern technology ecosystems (e.g. SaaS, cloud, AI/ML, digital platforms).
• Experience working with both large technology providers and emerging AI-focused organisations.
• Proven ability to act as a strategic business partner, shaping decisions and influencing outcomes.
• Highly intellectually curious, able to navigate ambiguity and challenge thinking constructively.
• Strong commercial judgement with the ability to balance speed, cost, risk, and innovation.
• Track record of leading transformation, including operating model evolution and capability building.
• Travel - Approximately 20-30%.