At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and execute global sourcing strategies while managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovative supply chain solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, private medical insurance, and group life assurance.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global procurement and travel internationally.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic sourcing and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
We are seeking a commercially minded Global Sourcing Specialist to develop and execute global sourcing strategies across a diverse portfolio of direct and indirect spend. Weekly presence required in Maidenhead, Berkshire, when not travelling. Anticipated global travel of approximately 25–40%.
This role will focus on identifying sourcing opportunities, building international supplier partnerships and delivering commercial value across the business. You will have the autonomy to develop strategic supplier partnerships, identify new sourcing opportunities and establish global purchasing agreements that deliver lasting commercial and operational value.
If you're passionate about procurement excellence, international sourcing and driving business improvement, we'd love to hear from you. Working closely with Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Product Management and Finance, you will play an important role in strengthening the global supply base and supporting the company's ambitious growth plans.
With significant sourcing activity in China and suppliers across international markets, this is a hands-on opportunity to develop your global procurement experience, influence sourcing decisions and make a tangible impact on the business.
Key duties of the Global Sourcing Specialist:
- Developing and implementing sourcing strategies across a varied portfolio of direct and indirect spend, identifying opportunities to improve cost, quality, availability and supplier performance.
- Sourcing direct products including electronic components, antennas, ruggedised tablets, warning lights, audible warning devices and other products incorporated into the company's high tech mechanical products.
- Managing sourcing activity across mechanical components, nuts, bolts, fasteners, washers, cable ties and associated hardware.
- Supporting indirect procurement across categories including PPE, travel management, storage solutions, logistics and shipping services.
- Identifying, evaluating and onboarding suppliers, leading RFQs, commercial negotiations and supplier benchmarking to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms.
- Building and developing relationships with international suppliers, particularly in China, establishing global supply agreements and identifying opportunities to strengthen the supplier base.
- Undertaking significant international travel, including visits to suppliers and colleagues in China and South Africa, to develop relationships, resolve challenges and identify sourcing opportunities.
- Working with internal stakeholders to ensure sourced products meet technical and operational requirements and are suitable for integration into the company's systems.
- Supporting the development of effective supply and distribution arrangements for international customers, including those operating in remote locations where tailored logistics solutions may be required.
- Identifying opportunities for supplier consolidation, cost reduction, improved processes and greater commercial value across the procurement portfolio.
The successful candidate will have:
- Experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management or commercial buying, with a track record of negotiating with suppliers and delivering value.
- Experience across direct procurement, ideally involving electronics, mechanical components, technology or other product-based categories.
- The ability to identify sourcing opportunities, evaluate suppliers and develop effective commercial agreements.
- Experience working with international suppliers or an interest in developing a global sourcing career, with a willingness to undertake regular international travel.
- Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills and the confidence to build relationships across different cultures and stakeholder groups.
- A proactive, analytical and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to take ownership and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, working collaboratively across functions to achieve business objectives.
- Experience sourcing from China would be particularly advantageous, and Mandarin language skills would be a significant bonus but are not essential.
- A willingness to learn and develop product knowledge; extensive technical expertise across every category is not required.
Benefits of the Global Sourcing Specialist role include:
- £60,000–£70,000
- Up to 7% matched pension
- PMI
- Group life assurance
- Group income protection
Global Sourcing Specialist in Reading employer: Procurement Heads
Join a forward-thinking global industrial technology and machinery business that values innovation and transformation. With a dynamic work culture that encourages problem-solving and strategic thinking, you'll have the chance to shape global sourcing strategies and build impactful supplier partnerships. Located in Berkshire, UK, this role offers significant travel opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and a matched pension scheme, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Sourcing Specialist in Reading
✨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 Procurement Heads.
✨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 Global Sourcing Specialist in Reading
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 Procurement Heads:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Procurement Heads. 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 Procurement Heads.
How to prepare for a job interview at Procurement Heads
✨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 Procurement Heads!
✨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 Procurement Heads. 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 Procurement Heads's culture.
