At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive cost reductions in direct materials through strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations.
- Company: Fast-growing, private equity-backed manufacturing business in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and impactful project experience.
- Other info: Immediate start in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on a thriving company while enhancing your procurement expertise.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with strong direct spend and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 130000 £ per year.
This is an exciting project working for a successful Midlands based, private equity backed, rapidly growing branded consumer focused manufacturing business.
The project scope is to deliver hard, P&L-impacting cost reductions across direct materials (raw materials, components, sub-assemblies, BOM/COGS) through supplier commercial improvements, sourcing/category strategies, and design while protecting supply continuity, quality, and customer delivery.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Build direct spend cube (top suppliers/categories, BOM/PPV, contract & indexation coverage, supplier performance) and validate current benchmarking.
- Create priority category strategies, ensuring full company coverage of in scope areas.
- Lead negotiations and sourcing events for top suppliers and implement risk controls.
About You:
- Available to start immediately.
- 10+ years in procurement/supply chain with strong direct spend exposure and a track record of direct material savings in manufacturing-based environment.
- Expert in supplier negotiations, commercial resets, and strategic sourcing.
- Proven cross-functional delivery with Engineering, Quality and Operations; able to influence senior stakeholders.
- Structured programme leadership (pipeline, cadence, governance) and pragmatic risk management to protect continuity/quality.
- Comfortable operating at pace in interim/transformation environments.
How to Apply:
To apply, in confidence, submit your CV online detailing your current remuneration package quoting job reference 10412.
Interim Procurement Consultant (Directs) employer: LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
Join a dynamic and rapidly growing private equity-backed manufacturing business in the West Midlands, where your expertise as an Interim Procurement Consultant will directly impact P&L through strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative work culture, this role offers you the chance to thrive in a hybrid environment while contributing to meaningful cost reductions and supply chain improvements. Enjoy competitive remuneration and the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders in a supportive setting that values innovation and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Procurement Consultant (Directs)
✨Get Involved in Procurement Communities
Join online forums and Facebook groups specific to procurement and purchasing. Places like the Institute for Supply Chain Management and local LinkedIn groups are goldmines for freelance opportunities and connections. We can find clients who are keen to work with freelancers like us!
✨Show Off Your Expertise with a Portfolio
Create a solid portfolio showcasing your expertise in procurement. Share case studies or examples of past projects, even hypothetical ones, that highlight your skills. We need clients to see what we can do, so having a dedicated website or a strong LinkedIn profile is essential!
✨Network at Procurement Events
Attend procurement and supply chain events, both online and offline. Look for trade shows, conferences, and workshops in your area. These are perfect for meeting potential clients and making those crucial connections that can lead to freelance gigs. Let's get out there and show what we’ve got!
✨Leverage Upwork and Freelancer Platforms
Sign up on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer specifically for procurement projects. These sites can connect us to clients actively seeking freelance support. Remember, we should tailor our profiles to highlight our unique skills and services to stand out from the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Procurement Consultant (Directs)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills:In procurement and purchasing, negotiation is key. Highlight your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated terms or prices in your application. This can be part of your CV or a separate section in your cover letter; just make it clear how you added value through your skills.
Craft a Stellar Portfolio:Since you're applying for a freelance role, a solid portfolio showcasing your previous procurement projects is a must. Include case studies or examples where you've sourced materials or reduced costs effectively, as this will help potential clients understand your capabilities.
Detail Your Relevant Certifications:Make sure to include any procurement-specific certifications you have, like CIPS or PMP, on your CV. These not only highlight your expertise but also give you a competitive edge in our freelance application process at LORD SEARCH & SELECTION.
Be Clear on Your Availability and Rates:When you apply, clearly state your availability and freelance rates. This will save both you and us time and make it easier for LORD SEARCH & SELECTION to see if your terms align with the project needs. Let's keep the communication straightforward from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In the procurement world, negotiation is key! Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated terms or pricing. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can save costs and add value to LORD SEARCH & SELECTION.
✨Prepare a Showcase of Your Previous Work
Since you're going in for a freelance role, make sure to bring a solid portfolio that highlights your best projects. Include details on how you improved procurement processes or managed supplier relationships; this will make your value crystal clear to LORD SEARCH & SELECTION.
✨Brush Up on Your Market Knowledge
Having a keen understanding of market trends, supplier capabilities, and pricing strategies is essential in procurement. Review recent developments or challenges in the industry that could impact LORD SEARCH & SELECTION, and be prepared to discuss how you would navigate these situations.
✨Communicate Your Flexibility and Availability
As a freelancer, you'll want to convey your flexibility. Discuss how you can adapt to LORD SEARCH & SELECTION's needs, whether that's available hours or project scopes. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can jump in quickly and align with their procurement priorities.
