At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for solar, BESS, and wind projects across EMEA.
- Company: Join Lightsource bp, a leader in renewable energy focused on sustainable growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, health insurance, and personal development initiatives.
- Other info: Work in an inclusive culture where your ideas matter and you can grow.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team making a real impact on the energy transition.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in sourcing, with strong experience in solar and BESS procurement.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
We are Lightsource bp – and we’re on a mission to become a global leader in onshore renewables, anchored by our proven track record in solar development. For over a decade we’ve been actively working to diversify the way our world is powered with sustainable and responsible renewable power. We work to safely deliver affordable, reliable, large-scale onshore renewable and energy storage solutions to help the world decarbonise. Our growing business is constantly innovating and investing to help drive the energy transition. Our people and projects are focused on supporting long-term sustainable growth and energy security. Lightsource bp (LSbp) was fully acquired by bp in 2024.
As part of the Global Procurement leadership team, the Head of Procurement EMEA will be accountable for the sustainable and competitive procurement of equipment and service delivery for our EMEA portfolio primarily focusing on Solar PV, BESS and Wind Capital Equipment Procurement. In collaboration with construction project teams, development, engineering, estimating, legal, insurance, and other groups, the Head of Procurement EMEA will ensure services, materials, and equipment are procured to support efficient delivery of quality solar construction projects and operations. A key senior role at Lightsource bp leading an experienced multi–national Procurement Team to enable sustainable growth, profitability and operational excellence of the company by maximising the value from both regional and local supply bases and developing mutually beneficial long-term partnerships with selected suppliers. Aside from PV, BESS and Wind targets, LS bp is set to support ~40GWs of renewables required for Hydrogen.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead the Procurement team in EMEA as RFQs, bid evaluations, price negotiations, contract negotiations and expediting, ensuring an ethical and sustainable supply chain;
- Develop and execute with the team the regional equipment Category Strategies;
- Actively partners and influences internal customers / stakeholders, other supporting functions teams to achieve optimal outcomes;
- Work closely with Tenders & Contracts and commercial engineering to optimize procurement and long-term equipment service/warranty arrangements;
- Provide accurate projects cost estimations to Business Development Team;
- Ensure that project costs are properly categorized and that a feedback loop mechanism is in place to compare and adjust estimating costs vs. actual project costs including, but not limited to production rates and cost of materials;
- Scan locally the PV, BESS and Wind market and provide regular intelligence to internal stakeholders;
- Monitors all equipment purchases to confirm subcontractor compliance and meets project requirements;
- Support teams on supplier escalations with technical and commercial disputed items, schedule, revenue-risk and on-going support services.
Who we’re looking for
- Strong procurement process and framework knowledge;
- Experience in Solar and BESS Procurement, Wind is advantage;
- Experience in EPC Construction Services Market intelligence and supply disruption risk analysis;
- Global supplier negotiation and management;
- Excellent understanding of all equipment Procurement related contracts and their legal implications;
- Strong understanding of the global commodity market;
- Leading cross-functional team in a high growth environment.
Skills Required
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills;
- Advanced influencing and commercial negotiation skills;
- Positive mindset, with a strong interest in developing relationships with stakeholders;
- Experience in the direct purchase of technically complex products and services;
- Risk management and compliance Experience;
- Proven business experience of 10+ years in a Sourcing function and 5+ years in similar management role;
- Proven track record in the solar PV and BESS industry. Wind experience is a relevant plus;
- Proven track record in leading multidisciplinary teams towards procurement related contracts;
- Ability to influence and work closely with Construction and Engineering to optimize procurement and long-term equipment service/warranty arrangements;
- Experience in supporting multi-functional projects in an international work environment with remote locations;
- Strong track record working with different cultures;
- Deep understanding of category management and application thereof.
Qualifications
- Bachelor or Master in Science degree in Business, Power, Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering;
- Professional certification like CPSM, CSCP, CIPS are preferred;
- Fluency in spoken and written English; fluency in another language is a plus.
Why you’ll make a great member of the team
- Forward thinking, a problem solver and solution provider;
- Proactive, flexible & “can do” attitude;
- Action and goal-oriented leader with a high degree of self-management;
- Ability to deal confidently building strong relations with stakeholders;
- Able to promote a positive working culture within the team;
- Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
Why you’ll want to work for us
Our company is a place where you can be yourself and grow; a place where your ideas and opinions matter. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive community, where every individual is valued and treated with respect. Our culture is driven by our core values. From operating safely to ensuring our solar projects are responsible and promote biodiversity. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a variety of benefits including annual bonus, retention bank, health insurance, pension and other local benefits. Beyond your day-to-day working life at Lightsource bp, there’s a variety of initiatives that will contribute to your own personal development. Initiatives to get involved with including our charitable causes, supporting our solar honey project or our sustainability initiatives.
Lightsource bp truly cares about creating a sustainable future through safe, responsible and meaningful low carbon energy projects. Our core values of Safety, Integrity, Respect, Sustainability and Drive are the guiding principles for everything we do.
Head of Procurement - EMEA in London employer: Lightsource BP
At Lightsource bp, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where every team member can thrive. As the Head of Procurement for EMEA, you will lead a talented multinational team dedicated to sustainable energy solutions, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Our competitive benefits package, including health insurance and annual bonuses, combined with our core values of Safety, Integrity, and Sustainability, make us an exceptional employer in the renewable energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement - EMEA in London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in solar, BESS, and wind procurement. Understanding the current market dynamics will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the renewable energy sector, especially those involved in procurement. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about their experiences at Lightsource bp.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully influenced stakeholders and managed supplier relationships in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Lightsource bp's core values and sustainability initiatives. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can set you apart as a candidate who truly fits into their company culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Procurement - EMEA in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, especially in the solar, BESS, and wind sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and successful project outcomes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for renewable energy and how your background aligns with Lightsource bp's mission. Mention your experience in leading cross-functional teams and your understanding of procurement processes.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Emphasise your advanced negotiation skills, risk management experience, and ability to build relationships with stakeholders. These are crucial for the Head of Procurement role and should be clearly articulated in your application.
Showcase Your Achievements:Include quantifiable achievements in your application, such as cost savings from previous procurement strategies or successful supplier negotiations. This will help demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lightsource BP
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand Lightsource bp's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their focus on sustainable energy and how they aim to lead in onshore renewables. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience in procurement, especially in Solar PV, BESS, and Wind sectors. Highlight specific examples of successful negotiations or strategies you've implemented that led to cost savings or improved supplier relationships. This will showcase your capability to lead the procurement team effectively.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with construction, engineering, and other departments in past roles. Emphasise your ability to influence stakeholders and achieve optimal outcomes through teamwork.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process in procurement situations. Think of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, particularly in high-pressure environments. This will illustrate your leadership qualities and strategic thinking.
