At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing and negotiate contracts to drive supplier performance.
- Company: Global organisation in scientific services supporting regulated industries.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment with strong visibility and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Ideal for those passionate about commercial strategy and data-driven decision making.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while working with global teams.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualified with 3+ years' experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Our client is a global organisation operating within scientific services and laboratory solutions, delivering critical support to regulated industries including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and research. We’re seeking a motivated Procurement Specialist to join a dynamic, high-performing team, driving supplier strategy and commercial performance. This is a key position within the procurement function, focused on strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation across a complex service portfolio. The role has been created to strengthen supplier performance, drive commercial value, and support long-term service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection aligned to long-term goals
- Own end-to-end negotiation of complex service contracts
- Design and deliver RFPs, contracting strategies, and long-term agreements
- Drive supplier performance through SRM, KPIs, and regular reviews
- Resolve supplier issues and lead continuous improvement initiatives
- Use data and market insights to inform decisions and identify opportunities
- Collaborate with global teams to align procurement with business objectives
To be considered for this position, you will have:
- CIPS qualified with 3+ years’ procurement experience ideally across services, manufacturing, scientific, or aviation sectors
- Proven success in negotiations and cost optimisation
- Strong background in RFPs and contract management / negotiation
- Skilled in supplier relationship management and stakeholder engagement
- Analytical, data-driven, and commercially focused
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
This is a highly collaborative role with strong visibility across the business, combining commercial thinking with operational impact. Apply now to learn more about this exciting opportunity!
Procurement Specialist - Strategic Operations employer: VRS UK
Join a leading global organisation in scientific services and laboratory solutions, where your role as a Procurement Specialist will be pivotal in driving supplier strategy and enhancing commercial performance. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement, the company fosters a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth through training and development opportunities. Located in Macclesfield, you will benefit from a supportive environment that values innovation and strategic thinking, making it an excellent place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist - Strategic Operations
✨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 VRS UK.
✨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 Specialist - Strategic Operations
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 VRS UK:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to VRS UK. 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 VRS UK.
How to prepare for a job interview at VRS UK
✨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 VRS UK!
✨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 VRS UK. 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 VRS UK's culture.
