At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and manage contracts for non-production goods, ensuring smooth supply chain operations.
- Company: Sunswap is a clean-tech innovator focused on sustainable transport refrigeration solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days of leave, sabbaticals, free lunches, and a Cycle to Work scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with industry leaders and contribute to a zero-emission future.
- Why this job: Join a rapidly growing company making a real impact in sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: 5 years in procurement, strong analytical skills, and experience with ERP systems required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Sunswap is a clean-tech innovator, pioneering the world’s first fully electric, battery and solar-powered transport refrigeration unit (TRU) — a true zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered systems. Our mission is to decarbonise the global cold chain, delivering sustainable solutions for the transport and logistics industry.
Since our founding in 2020, we have grown rapidly and secured key partnerships with industry leaders like Tesco and DFDS to bring our cutting-edge refrigeration technology to market. In 2024, we secured a £17.3 million investment to accelerate our mission and scale our impact.
Our achievements have earned significant recognition, including the 2024 Technological Breakthrough Award from the Cold Chain Federation and a place in The Sunday Times Best Companies 2024 list, celebrating our outstanding workplace culture. At Sunswap, we are united by a shared vision of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, where every team member is empowered to make a meaningful impact.
Job overview
The Indirect Procurement Specialist will support the building out of a robust supply chain as we scale. You will be responsible for sourcing and managing non-production goods and services critical to the smooth operation of manufacturing and production. This includes procurement of items such as MRO (maintenance, repair, operations) supplies, IT services & equipment, marketing materials/services, transportation services, utilities, facility management, third-party logistics (3PL) services and other support services.
The role focuses on cost optimisation, supplier performance, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. You will play a key role in supporting our procurement activities, with a strong focus on operational tasks to ensure smooth coordination across the supply chain. Your contribution will help keep operations efficient and responsive in a dynamic environment. The role is a great opportunity to be part of building a high-growth business where every day pushes your boundaries.
Key Responsibilities:
- Source, negotiate, and manage contracts for indirect categories.
- Ensure that tactical and operational supply chain activities for all indirect categories are effectively managed and executed on time.
- Identify new suppliers to source the best products in terms of value, delivery schedules, sustainable practice and quality.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising operational reliability or quality standards.
- Develop, improve and manage procurement processes to support business and supply chain function development.
- Manage vendor performance, track KPIs (delivery reliability, cost adherence, etc.), and initiate corrective actions where needed.
- Collaborate with internal departments (engineering, logistics, production, aftermarket) to understand procurement needs and develop specifications.
- Monitor market trends and supplier innovations in cold chain logistics and recommend improvements.
- Maintain procurement records and ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards
- Analyse spend data, produce statistics and identify costs and saving opportunities.
- Demonstrate a continuous improvement mindset and optimise procurement operations for efficiency.
- Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to ensure favourable agreements.
- Support other areas of the business when required.
You are:
- A creative problem solver – you find enjoyment in finding solutions to complex issues.
- Not dependent on process – you are comfortable with doing things differently and ready to challenge us to do the same.
- Comfortable working autonomously – juggling multiple projects and activities at once.
- An effective communicator – keen to share your opinions and ideas whilst building on others’.
- Customer centric – you see the bigger picture of what we are trying to achieve
- A pragmatist – you understand the trade-offs between commercial and technical supply chain decisions.
You have:
- Key understanding and experience within an indirect/category management role.
- Commercial and financial awareness including strong analytical abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills.
- Ability to travel to meet with suppliers as required.
- Experience with an industry standard ERP system.
- Experience of detailed quotation analysis and developing / challenging pricing with suppliers where appropriate.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to simplify complex data.
- 5 years of experience in a purchasing/procurement role.
Bonus points if you have:
- MCIPS or studying towards.
- Broad experience within manufacturing – preferably in the automotive industry.
- Understanding of key cost drivers in manufacturing processes.
- 30 days of annual leave (includes a Wellbeing Day)
- Sabbatical (after 3 years of working with Sunswap)
- 5 free counselling sessions per year
- Family leave ranging from 4 weeks to 4 months
- Free Monthly Lunches & Quarterly Socials!
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Free Sunswap merch
Apply for this role
Ready to make a difference? Apply now and help shape the future of transport refrigeration.
Indirect Procurement Specialist in Leatherhead employer: Sunswap Ltd
Sunswap is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of our mission to decarbonise the global cold chain. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide 30 days of annual leave, sabbaticals, and opportunities for professional development, all while fostering a collaborative culture that celebrates creativity and inclusivity. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the clean-tech industry, supported by competitive benefits and a commitment to your well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Indirect Procurement Specialist in Leatherhead
✨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 Sunswap Ltd.
✨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 Indirect Procurement Specialist in Leatherhead
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 Sunswap Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Sunswap Ltd. 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 Sunswap Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sunswap Ltd
✨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 Sunswap Ltd!
✨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 Sunswap Ltd. 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 Sunswap Ltd's culture.
