At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-value procurement strategies and collaborate with senior stakeholders.
- Company: Join the University of Warwick's dynamic procurement team.
- Benefits: Enjoy stability, professional growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape category strategies and drive continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on strategic projects in higher education.
- Qualifications: Extensive procurement experience and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Senior Procurement Manager to play a pivotal role in delivering best‑value procurement solutions across the University of Warwick. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing procurement team and influence major strategic projects, category strategies and supply‑chain optimisation at scale. In this senior role, you will lead a portfolio exceeding £10m spend per annum, design and implement procurement strategies, and contribute directly to the University’s wider procurement and commercial goals. You will collaborate with senior stakeholders, shape category directions, and drive continuous improvement in one of the UK’s most dynamic higher‑education institutions.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading high-value category and project procurement strategies, ensuring alignment with budgets, KPIs, and University goals.
- Delivering compliant, robust and auditable end‑to‑end procurement processes, including competitive tendering and framework agreements.
- Providing expert commercial leadership for complex strategic contract negotiations, mitigating financial, commercial and legal risks.
- Leading cross‑functional project teams to deliver process improvements, category innovations and procurement best practice across the institution.
- Building strong, collaborative relationships with senior academic and professional services stakeholders.
- Supporting and developing junior team members while contributing to the overall maturity and capability of the Procurement Office.
- Producing business cases, options appraisals, KPI analysis and high‑impact reporting for senior decision‑makers.
What we’re looking for:
- You’ll bring extensive experience in complex procurement environments and a strong record of delivering value through strategy, category management and negotiation.
- A degree or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience delivering procurement strategies and managing spend over £10m per year, achieving measurable savings and best value.
- Broad expertise spanning category management, tendering, specification development, whole‑life costing, contract formation and contract management.
- High‑level negotiation skills with strong commercial and legal awareness.
- Ability to lead cross‑functional teams and senior‑level stakeholder groups to successful outcomes.
- Excellent communication skills and the confidence to influence at all levels.
- Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to thrive under pressure and to strict deadlines.
- Knowledge of Public Contracts Regulations 2015 / the Procurement Act 2023.
This is an opportunity to operate at a genuinely strategic level within a world‑class research institution. You will:
- Shape major category strategies with real institutional impact.
- Lead high‑profile, complex procurements and negotiations.
- Work collaboratively with influential stakeholders across the University.
- Contribute to continuous improvement in a mature, forward‑thinking procurement function.
- Enjoy the benefits and stability of a major higher‑education employer.
Senior Procurement Manager employer: Uniperms
The University of Warwick is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Senior Procurement Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead high-value procurement strategies that directly impact the institution's goals while enjoying a supportive culture that prioritises employee development and continuous improvement. With access to a wealth of resources and a commitment to excellence, you will be part of a prestigious higher-education institution that values your contributions and fosters professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, attend industry events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of Warwick’s procurement strategies and recent projects. Tailor your responses to showcase how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around category management and stakeholder collaboration.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job! We’re always looking for talented individuals who can contribute to our procurement team, so make sure your application stands out by highlighting your relevant achievements.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Procurement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your achievements in managing high-value procurement and any relevant strategies you've implemented.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Senior Procurement Manager role. Share examples of how you've led successful procurement projects and built strong relationships with stakeholders.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills:Since negotiation is key in this role, include specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex contract negotiations. This will demonstrate your expertise and confidence in handling high-stakes discussions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the University of Warwick.
How to prepare for a job interview at Uniperms
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Procurement Manager, you'll be handling significant budgets. Make sure you come prepared with specific examples of how you've managed spend over £10m in the past. Highlight measurable savings and best value achieved through your strategies.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Expect to discuss your negotiation skills in detail. Prepare to share stories about complex contract negotiations you've led, focusing on how you mitigated risks and achieved favourable outcomes. This will showcase your commercial acumen.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
You'll need to build strong relationships with senior stakeholders. Think of examples where you've successfully influenced decision-makers or collaborated with cross-functional teams. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and communicate effectively.
✨Be Ready for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliant procurement processes, brush up on Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the Procurement Act 2023. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the position.
