At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and collaborate with teams to enhance product development.
- Company: PZ Cussons is a global FMCG company with a rich history and a passion for sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with flexible options and stunning office spaces.
- Other info: We value diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative culture focused on innovation and making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Degree educated, strong analytical skills, and a passion for beauty and personal care products.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are PZ Cussons. Our purpose is For everyone, for life, for good.
Sustainability and the wellbeing of people, families and communities everywhere are at the heart of everything that we do.
Since our founding in 1884, we have been creating products to delight, care for and nourish consumers. Across our core categories of Hygiene, Baby and Beauty, our trusted and well-loved brands include Carex, Cussons Baby, Sanctuary Spa and St. Tropez.
POSITION SNAPSHOT
Role: Direct Procurement Manager
Location: Manchester
Contract type: 13 Month Maternity Cover
WHY US AND WHY THIS ROLE
We are PZ Cussons. Our purpose is For Everyone, For Life, For Good. Sustainability and the wellbeing of people, families and communities everywhere are at the heart of everything that we do. Since 1884, we’ve been creating products that delight, care for and nourish consumers.
This role sits at the heart of how we bring our products to life. As Direct Procurement Manager, you’ll shape how we source, partner and innovate across packaging and third-party manufacturing. You’ll play a key role in getting new ideas to market faster, improving margins and building resilient supply partnerships. It’s a hands-on, commercially focused role where your decisions will directly influence product success, brand growth and how we continue to evolve in a fast-moving FMCG environment.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING
Own procurement strategy across selected brands and packaging categories, delivering value, innovation and supply continuity
Build and develop supplier partnerships that unlock new ideas, strengthen resilience and support long-term growth
Play a central role in new product development, helping source the right partners and ensure launches are delivered on time and on budget
Drive cost optimisation and margin improvement through smart sourcing, negotiation and continuous improvement
Work closely with teams across NPD, Supply Chain, R&D and Quality to bring products to market at pace
Monitor supplier performance and market trends, proactively managing risk and identifying new opportunities
WHAT YOU’LL BRING
Experience in procurement or sourcing within FMCG, manufacturing or packaging
Strong commercial instinct, with confidence in negotiation and supplier management
The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment
Great communication skills, with the confidence to influence and collaborate across teams
An analytical mindset and confidence working with data
Familiarity with tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and ideally SAP or similar systems
WHAT YOU’LL GET IN RETURN
The opportunity to work on well-loved brands with real consumer impact
A collaborative, fast-paced environment where your ideas are heard and valued
Exposure across global teams, suppliers and innovation projects
Flexible ways of working, with time spent connecting in our Manchester office
OUR PURPOSE, CULTURE AND VALUES
At PZ Cussons, our purpose is For everyone, for life, for good. We believe in creating products that care for people, families and communities everywhere.
We’re a business that’s big enough for you to make an impact, but small enough for you to shape your own path. You’ll find a culture that’s collaborative, supportive and focused on doing the right thing — for our consumers, our people and the world around us.
INCLUSION AND FAIRNESS
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.
If you need any support during the recruitment process, please let us know — we’re here to help ensure you have the best possible experience.
#LI-CE1
#LI-Hybrid
PZ Cussons is big enough to make your mark, small enough to make it yours. Apply to join us!
Direct Procurement Manager in Manchester employer: PZ Cussons
PZ Cussons is an exceptional employer that prioritises sustainability and employee wellbeing, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment in Manchester. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusivity, the company offers ample opportunities for professional growth and development, allowing employees to make a meaningful impact while working with renowned brands in the fast-moving consumer goods sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Procurement Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with PZ Cussons' brands and their market positioning. Understanding the nuances of their products, especially in the beauty and personal care sectors, will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the FMCG sector, particularly those involved in procurement. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the company's culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've implemented cost-saving initiatives or improved supplier relationships in previous roles. Highlighting your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in procurement and supply chain management, especially within the beauty and personal care industries. Being able to speak knowledgeably about recent developments will show your commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Procurement Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management. Use keywords from the job description, such as 'cost negotiation', 'supplier performance', and 'new product development' to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for beauty and personal care products. Mention specific brands you admire and how your skills align with PZ Cussons' values of sustainability and community wellbeing.
Showcase Analytical Skills:Since strong analytical skills are crucial for this role, provide examples of how you've used data analysis in previous positions to drive efficiencies or cost savings. This could be through specific projects or initiatives you've led.
Highlight Communication Abilities:Emphasise your strong communication skills by detailing experiences where you've successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams or negotiated with suppliers. This will show that you can effectively engage at all levels of the business.
How to prepare for a job interview at PZ Cussons
✨Research PZ Cussons
Before the interview, take some time to understand PZ Cussons' history, values, and product range. Familiarise yourself with their brands and recent developments in the FMCG sector. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and align your answers with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous procurement experiences in detail. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully negotiated costs, managed supplier relationships, or implemented margin improvement initiatives. Use metrics to quantify your achievements, as this will showcase your impact on business performance.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Given the analytical nature of the role, be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform your decisions in past roles. You might be asked to solve a hypothetical problem during the interview, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
PZ Cussons values teamwork, so be sure to highlight your ability to work collaboratively across different teams. Share examples of how you've successfully partnered with cross-functional teams in the past, particularly in new product development or supplier management.
