At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for tech and digital tools, shaping partnerships that drive growth.
- Company: Join Yum! UK & Europe, a leader in the supply chain for KFC and Taco Bell.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across Europe and a focus on digital innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on restaurant profitability through innovative technology and strategic partnerships.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in procurement or technology sourcing with strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Yum! UK & I and Europe is a part of One Yum! Supply Chain Centre of Excellence (COE), set up to support KFC and Taco Bell with one supply chain, one purpose and one bold goal: unmatched profitability for every restaurant. The COE works horizontally across brands, markets, functions, franchisees and suppliers to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable supply; improve restaurant paybacks; accelerate growth; and power brand strategies through world-class category management, supplier partnerships, data, governance and innovation execution.
Role Purpose
Lead category strategy and sourcing for technology, data, digital tools and strategic partnerships that support the One Yum! SCM COE and the growth agendas of KFC and Taco Bell Europe. Help build the digital backbone of One Yum! supply chain. This role leads procurement for the technology, data, digital and partnership ecosystem that enables faster insight, better governance and more scalable restaurant growth across Europe. You will connect D&T, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, Legal, Privacy, Security, markets and suppliers to shape partnerships that deliver value, resilience and adoption - not just contracts.
Responsibilities
- Create the procurement category strategy for tech, data, digital and partnership spend, aligned to the One Yum! agenda and D&T roadmap.
- Lead sourcing, supplier selection, commercial negotiation, contract governance and implementation planning for digital and technology categories.
- Partner with D&T, Legal, Privacy, Security, Finance, Operations, Supply Chain and market stakeholders to define requirements and supplier guardrails.
- Evaluate supplier capability, commercial models, scalability, service performance, data governance, risk and long-term fit for the Yum! ecosystem.
- Build strategic supplier relationships that bring innovation, insight, service quality and adoption support to KFC and Taco Bell markets.
- Support the procurement excellence agenda through digital sourcing tools, data visibility, supplier performance reporting and automation opportunities.
- Manage supplier performance, renewals, escalations and contract compliance with clear ownership and leadership reporting.
- Track value delivery, ROI, risk and adoption to ensure technology partnerships deliver measurable business outcomes.
What success looks like
- Improved restaurant economics through validated savings, cost avoidance, payback improvement and total cost optimisation.
- Reliable execution for KFC and Taco Bell markets, with stronger supplier performance, fewer disruptions and clear issue ownership.
- Category strategies that are understood by brands, functions, franchisees and suppliers, and translated into practical delivery plans.
- A supplier ecosystem that brings innovation, resilience, quality, food safety, sustainability and competitive advantage to the business.
Qualifications
- 8+ years' experience in procurement, technology sourcing, digital commercial management, supplier partnerships or related commercial roles.
- Experience sourcing or managing SaaS, data, digital, AI, systems integration, D&T services or strategic technology partnerships.
- Strong commercial and contractual understanding, including pricing models, service levels, implementation risk and supplier performance.
- Ability to work credibly with D&T, Legal, Privacy, Security, Finance and business stakeholders.
- Analytical and data-literate, with the ability to connect supplier choices to business value and operational adoption.
- Confident in negotiation, stakeholder management and managing multiple projects at pace.
- Practical understanding of governance, compliance, risk and responsible supplier management in technology environments.
How you will work
- A translator between technology, commercial value and operational needs.
- Curious about digital innovation but disciplined about governance and measurable impact.
- Able to move from strategy to supplier negotiations to adoption tracking.
- Working pattern: Hybrid role based from Woking, with European market, restaurant and supplier travel as required.
Tech, Data, Digital and Partnerships Lead in Woking employer: KFC
KFC in Washington, England, is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and a vibrant work culture. With benefits such as bonus potential, extra holiday, and staff discounts, we foster a supportive environment where passionate leaders can thrive and make a meaningful impact on both the team and guest experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tech, Data, Digital and Partnerships Lead in Woking
✨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 KFC.
✨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 Tech, Data, Digital and Partnerships Lead in Woking
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 KFC:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to KFC. 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 KFC.
How to prepare for a job interview at KFC
✨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 KFC!
✨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 KFC. 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 KFC's culture.
