At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for major infrastructure projects, shaping strategies and managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in delivering a cleaner energy future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, up to 40% bonus, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition through strategic procurement leadership.
- Qualifications: Extensive procurement experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About the role At National Grid, we're investing billions in critical infrastructure that will help deliver a cleaner, more secure energy future.
To achieve this, we need exceptional procurement leaders who can shape commercial strategy, influence major investment decisions, and ensure our supply chains are ready to support some of the UK's most significant energy programmes.
We're looking for a Head of Infrastructure & Network Procurement to provide strategic procurement leadership across major infrastructure and network programmes.
Working closely with senior business leaders, you will develop and execute commercial and procurement strategies that drive value, manage risk and support the successful delivery of complex capital projects.
This is a high-profile leadership role where you'll act as a trusted business partner to senior stakeholders, leading end-to-end procurement delivery across large-scale programmes, whilst building strong partnerships across our procurement organisation and supply chain.
The role is hybrid with our base office located in Warwick, there will also be occasional travel to different sites.
What you'll do Lead procurement delivery across major infrastructure and network programmes, from sourcing strategy through to contract execution and ongoing delivery.
Develop commercial strategies that support business objectives, maximise value and enable successful programme outcomes.
Partner with senior business leaders to shape delivery models, market engagement approaches and procurement plans.
Drive capital efficiency initiatives, supporting project cost optimisation, risk management and investment decisions.
Lead the development and execution of programme and supply chain strategies across complex, high-value projects.
Coordinate procurement resources and expertise across category management, supplier engagement, supply chain risk and procurement business partnering teams.
Oversee supplier selection, commercial negotiations, contract management and dispute resolution where required.
Proactively identify and mitigate commercial, delivery and supply chain risks.
Translate business requirements into actionable procurement strategies and programmes of work.
Foster a collaborative "One Procurement" culture, ensuring alignment across teams and stakeholders.
Lead, coach and develop a high-performing team, building capability and creating an environment where people can thrive.
What you'll need We're looking for an experienced procurement leader who can operate confidently in a complex stakeholder environment and influence at the most senior levels.
You'll ideally have: Extensive experience leading end-to-end procurement, commercial delivery or supply chain management within large-scale infrastructure, capital projects or complex programmes.
A strong track record of developing and executing procurement strategies that deliver measurable business value.
Experience working within large, matrixed organisations and managing multiple stakeholders across business functions.
The ability to build credibility and influence senior leaders, including executive-level stakeholders and supplier executives.
Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
Strong commercial acumen, negotiation expertise and contract management capability.
Experience managing procurement and supply chain risks within complex programmes.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive positive outcomes.
Experience working collaboratively across procurement, project delivery, commercial, finance and operational teams.
Degree-level qualification, CIPS qualification or equivalent professional experience.
What you'll get As well as a competitive salary you will receive a bonus of upto 40% based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, a company car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
You'll have the opportunity to shape the delivery of nationally significant infrastructure projects that are critical to the UK's energy transition.
More Information This role closes on 17th November at 23:59, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates – we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria.
We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process.
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system.
As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system.
However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship.
All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
Head of Infrastructure & Network Procurement employer: National Grid
At National Grid, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. With competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and a robust pension scheme, we ensure our employees are well rewarded for their contributions. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion, along with flexible working arrangements, empowers our team members to thrive both personally and professionally in the heart of the UK's energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Infrastructure & Network Procurement
✨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 National Grid.
✨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 Head of Infrastructure & Network Procurement
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 National Grid:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to National Grid. 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 National Grid.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨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 National Grid!
✨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 National Grid. 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 National Grid's culture.
