At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for mechanical sourcing, managing contracts and supplier relationships.
- Company: Thales is a global leader in aerospace, defence, security, and space technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid options, and opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact on safety and innovation worldwide.
- Qualifications: Experience in drafting complex contracts and negotiating in a multi-discipline environment required.
- Other info: Thales values diversity and offers support for neuro-diverse applicants.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: Manor Royal Crawley, United Kingdom
In fast changing markets, customers worldwide rely on Thales. Thales is a business where brilliant people from all over the world come together to share ideas and inspire each other. In aerospace, transportation, defence, security and space, our architects design innovative solutions that make our tomorrow\’s possible.Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better, and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space. Your health and well-being matters to us and that’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.
Location : Can be based either Crawley, Templecombe, Glasgow, Reading, Cheadle or Belfast
Hybrid working
We have a great opportunity for a Head of Procurement to lead the Mechanical Segment sourcing activity for Thales UK.
Leading the sourcing and contracting activity of the mechanical segment ensuring minimized exposure to supplier risk through double sourcing, best cost country sourcing and leading the generation, negotiation and execution of robust supplier contracts. This role also acts as Lead for key supplier relationships, negotiation and issue resolution.
You\’ll be responsible for a team of Category Buyers and Manager and works closely in matrix environment with the Mechanical Global Segment Directors and Global Sourcing Directors/Managers.
The role is responsible for supplier strategy, sourcing and drafting a suite of appropriate contracting frameworks, leading the Mechanical Category team through the review, negotiation and execution process through to handover to SCMs.
This role will require frequent and close relationship with other functions and stakeholders, and in particular, with Global Segment Team, BL Procurement Directors, Bids Procurement Manager (PPM), Supplier Contract Manager (SCM), Category Managers (CM), and Legal & Contracts ensuring contracts are executed in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations and in compliance with the flow down terms of Customer contracts and Thales policies and directives.
Key Responsibilities and tasks
- Generate Contract plan: Assess contract coverage, generate & manage prioritised implementation plan to ensure full framework contractual commitment and reduce Thales risk and exposure.
- Lead Supplier Contract Coverage: Work with the Category Managers and L&C Department to ensure that robust supplier contracts or are being progressed in accordance with Thales procurement process and governance.
- Draft and negotiate a suite of supplier frameworks to suit the various procurements which drives performance through incentivisation. Lead negotiations for all high risk procurements.
- Ensure appropriate performance mechanisms (KPI/SLA’s/) are negotiated as part of the contract framework allowing robust performance and claim/recourse management.
- Lead and implement Segment C Mechanical Local and BCC Strategy to ensure competitiveness and risk mitigation.
- Ensure appropriate double sourcin g of high risk supplier to ensure risk mitigation and capacity ramp up achievement.
- Lead Category Management through the Sourcing Process for high-risk RV2 projects: Lead negotiations through PVET 1 through to PVET4 (award). Ensure all risks are identified and captured and appropriate supplier mitigation plans are in place.
- Lead direct relationships with the key supplier/s, through the negotiation process acting as commercial/contractual point of contact, dealing with all supplier contractual queries.
- Provide support for Make V Buy Reviews to identify and facilitate outsourcing of internal capacity & conduct sourcing activity to support process.
- Act as Business Partner for all Mechanical Supply Chain Ramp Up activity for IAS and provide sound advice to all stakeholders.
- Ensure maintenance of appropriate contractual records and files as well as provide regular reports/briefs as required.
- Provide support to projects, bids and functions; liaise within Procurement function to feed any lessons learned into future bids and projects.
- Support CLM roll out, ensure all Supplier Contracts are generated and stored in the tool and responsible for Category Management training and compliance.
Right for this role?
We are looking for candidates who have experience of:
- Drafting of large high value, complex and high-risk contracts & a range of procurements covering both goods and services.
- Prime Contract flow down through the supply contact to protect against risk and exposure
- Drafting KPI’s, SLA’s and incentive based agreements to ensure performance
- Relevant procurement experience, incl. sourcing/ negotiation.
- Working in a major programme/ project environment
- Working in a multi-discipline team environment
You also would have:
- Worked in in an environment with frequent changes, and to shape solutions out of complexity.
- A problem-solving thinker who confidently solves issues with informed, timely decision making whilst maintaining integrity and transparency.
- Thrives on performing through teamwork, managing different types of stakeholders.
- Ability to interface well and influence effectively at senior levels including internally and externally
#LI-SW1
In line with Thales\’ Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) Agency.
At Thales we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working.
Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro-diverse applicants or those with a disability or long-term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.
Great journeys start here, apply now!
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Head of Procurement- Mechanical employer: Thales
Contact Detail:
Thales Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement- Mechanical
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Thales' core values and mission. Understanding their focus on innovation in aerospace, defence, security, and space will help you align your experience and skills with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Thales, especially those in procurement roles. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience in drafting and negotiating high-value contracts. Be ready to explain how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and mitigated risks in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends and challenges in procurement, particularly in the mechanical sector. Being knowledgeable about current market conditions will demonstrate your commitment and expertise during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Procurement- Mechanical
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, particularly in drafting complex contracts and managing supplier relationships. Use specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work in a multi-discipline team environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of Thales' values and the specific requirements of the Head of Procurement role. Discuss how your background aligns with their needs, especially in terms of risk mitigation and contract negotiation.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements related to procurement. For instance, mention any successful negotiations that led to significant cost savings or improved supplier performance metrics.
Prepare for Security Clearance: Since this role may require security clearance, be ready to provide evidence of your identity, eligibility to work in the UK, and your employment and education history for the past three years. Gather these documents early to streamline your application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Head of Procurement role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as supplier contract management and risk mitigation strategies. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the job requirements.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about specific scenarios related to procurement challenges, negotiations, and supplier management. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex situations effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves leading a team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you motivate and manage teams. Highlight any relevant experiences where you successfully led a team through challenges or achieved significant results.
✨Research Thales and Its Values
Familiarise yourself with Thales' mission, values, and recent developments in the aerospace, defence, and security sectors. Showing that you understand the company’s goals and culture will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and help you connect with the interviewers.