INTERNATIONAL RECRUITMENT & HR EXPERTS ACROSS THE PLASTICS, PACKAGING, SPECIALITY CHEMICALS, LIFE SCIENCES, BIOPOLYMER, FOOD ADDITIVES & INGREDIENTS, ENERGY AND RECYCLING SECTORS SINCE 1975.
Manufacturer of plastic safety critical products
Based in Derbyshire
Job ref: CST/65248
Salary: Attractive
The Client
Our client is a leading manufacturer where robust and effective procurement processes are an integral part of business performance and growth objectives. The company is looking to strengthen its purchasing expertise; particularly drive improvements in the procurement function and provide clearer leadership to the team. The role reports into the Director of Operations.
Purpose of position
To lead the procurement function by developing and delivering the procurement strategy, coordinating procurement activities, and ensuring effective strategic sourcing of key raw materials, including resin.
Responsibilities
- Develop, communicate and deliver the procurement strategy and supporting business plan in line with company strategy; set short-, medium- and long-term departmental goals to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
- Critically evaluate procurement processes and lead the development and implementation of best-practice improvements.
- Take the lead role in key supplier negotiations and development of contractual terms and conditions & review current key supplier contracts and identify areas for improvement leading to the tendering process.
- Lead the strategic sourcing of key raw materials, including resin, to secure supply continuity, value, quality and commercial competitiveness.
- Drive value improvement in the cost per unit manufactured by working closely with manufacturing, planning and supplier partners to identify cost reduction, efficiency and value engineering opportunities across direct costs, indirect costs, CAPEX and OPEX.
- Promote close working relationships with all stakeholder departments including and especially, manufacturing, planning, logistics.
- Develop and Implement Supplier Excellence and Vendor Rating Procedures in conjunction with Safety, Quality, Environmental and Social Policy
- Ensure procurement activities, supplier onboarding, contractual arrangements and sourcing decisions comply with company policies, legal requirements, ethical standards and relevant safety, quality, environmental and social governance requirements.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
Essential
- Proven procurement professional with a strong track record in manufacturing is essential.
- Working in a purchasing role that involves negotiating with international blue‑chip suppliers
- Experience developing and delivering procurement strategy, including strategic sourcing of raw materials such as resin.
- Experience of 3PL contracts.
Desirable
- Ideally expertise in managing 3rd party manufacturers.
- Develop, communicate and administer procurement team performance, individual appraisal and development plans to: demonstrate a high level of day‑to‑day control and responsiveness; a focus on driving performance improvement and improvement of business processes.
- Drive effective communication and motivation in the team. Develop and mentor direct reports and provide the tools by which they can deliver their objectives.
Person Profile
- Analytical and critical thinker
- Strong character – durable and resilient
- Positive leadership skills – can direct and mentor team
- Good communicator (written and verbal)
- Strategic and innovative thinker with strong analytical skills
- Organized and calm under pressure
- Approachable, flexible, durable and resilient
- Proactive, positive, enthusiastic – demonstrates ‘can do’ approach
- Change agent – able to create a vision and deliver best‑in‑class processes
- Commercially aware and strong negotiator
Job titles
Head of Procurement, Head of Purchasing, Procurement Manager, Purchasing Manager, Strategic Sourcing Manager
Please understand that due to the expected high number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the country where the role is located. Evidence of the right to work may be required during the recruitment process
For reasons of readability, gender‑specific language has been simplified. All references to individuals apply equally to people of all genders.
Why select Listgrove?
- Five Decades of Market Intelligence
- Unrivalled Industry Networks
- Recognised International brand
- HR Qualified Professionals
To hear from our clients on how we have supported their search for talent and HR needs, please visit Listgrove’s Case Studies page.
Throughout 2026 & 2027 you can meet with Listgrove at the following exhibitions
Interpack, France Innovation Plasturgie, Interplas UK, Plast Milan, Fakuma, ArabPlast, NPE 2027.
Please visit www.listgrove.com for more information on our services, global success and testimonials.
Listgrove Limited Registered in England No: 01197713
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Head of Procurement employer: Listgrove Ltd
Listgrove is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leicestershire that fosters innovation and collaboration within the aerospace sealing sector. With over five decades of industry expertise, employees benefit from unparalleled professional development opportunities, a supportive culture, and the chance to work on cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Join us to be part of a recognised international brand that values your contributions and prioritises your growth.
