At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement activities and manage supplier relationships for cost-effective goods and services.
- Company: Join Waterstones, a leading retail and e-commerce brand with a strong presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team in a thriving retail environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving cost savings and enhancing supplier strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Waterstones seeks a Procurement Manager to join our team in London or Solihull.
You will lead procurement activities to ensure cost-effective, high-quality goods and services, while managing supplier relationships and mitigating risks.
The role involves embedding a procurement-to-pay process and rolling out a PO system across the business.
You will source suppliers, run tenders, negotiate contracts, and develop strategies to achieve cost savings.
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Strategic Procurement Manager - Hybrid (Retail/E-commerce) in London employer: Waterstones
Waterstones is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters growth and innovation in the heart of London. With a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, employees are encouraged to thrive while contributing to a beloved brand that has been a cornerstone of bookselling since 1982. The company provides ample opportunities for professional development, a supportive culture, and the chance to be part of a team that values creativity and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Procurement Manager - Hybrid (Retail/E-commerce) in London
✨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 Waterstones.
✨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 Strategic Procurement Manager - Hybrid (Retail/E-commerce) in London
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 Waterstones:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Waterstones. 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 Waterstones.
How to prepare for a job interview at Waterstones
✨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 Waterstones!
✨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 Waterstones. 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 Waterstones's culture.
