At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage product categories, build supplier relationships, and drive process improvements.
- Company: Leading packaging solutions provider in Kimbolton, Cambridgeshire.
- Benefits: £45,000 salary, 25 days holiday, and employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Onsite role with a supportive working environment and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in procurement.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in procurement or as a Senior Buyer.
Our client, a leading packaging solutions provider based in Kimbolton, Cambridgeshire is seeking an experienced Procurement Manager to join their Procurement Team, working alongside another Procurement Manager with responsibility for a defined portfolio of product categories. The role is responsible for sourcing, supplier management, cost control, process improvement, and ensuring compliance. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded procurement professional who enjoys driving continual improvement.
Key responsibilities
- Manage an allocated portfolio of product categories, developing sourcing strategies and ensuring continuity of supply.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, negotiate pricing and commercial terms, and monitor supplier performance.
- Work collaboratively with the other Procurement Manager to ensure effective category ownership and procurement coverage.
- Lead and support process improvement and continual improvement initiatives across procurement activities.
- Maintain accurate records to support PPWR, EPR and Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) compliance requirements.
- Work closely with internal departments to ensure accurate product data and timely introduction of new products.
- Analyse purchasing trends, identify cost-saving opportunities and support business objectives.
- Maintain supplier terms and conditions optimisation and working capital improvement.
- Stock level reviews.
- Ensure ERP data is accurate and maintained.
Requirements
- Strong negotiation, organisational and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Process improvement mindset with a focus on continual improvement.
- Packaging industry experience is desirable.
- Experience using Merlin ERP system would be an advantage.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office.
- MCIPS is desirable.
- Previous Procurement Manager or Senior Buyer experience.
- Packaging industry knowledge desirable.
Benefits
- Salary of £45,000pa
- 25 days holiday
- Employee assistance programme
- Supportive working environment
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm or 8.30am to 5pm
Please note that this is an onsite position.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager in Kimbolton
✨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 Universal Business Team.
✨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 Procurement Manager in Kimbolton
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 Universal Business Team:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Universal Business Team. 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 Universal Business Team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Business Team
✨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 Universal Business Team!
✨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 Universal Business Team. 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 Universal Business Team's culture.
