At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive cost savings and enhance supplier performance while supporting sustainability goals.
- Company: Join Whistl's innovative Business Services & ESG team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to leverage technology and AI.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming supply chains and driving innovation.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for a commercially driven Procurement Specialist to join Whistl’s Business Services & ESG team. This is a high-impact role where you will develop and deliver category strategies, drive measurable cost savings and enhance supplier performance across a defined portfolio of spend. Acting as a trusted advisor to stakeholders across the business, you will play a critical role in strengthening Whistl’s supply chain; improving resilience, reducing risk and driving innovation while supporting our ESG and net-zero ambitions.
About the Role
Key Responsibilities
- Category Strategy & Sourcing
- Develop and execute sourcing and category strategies aligned to business objectives
- Conduct supplier market and spend analysis to identify opportunities
- Lead end-to-end sourcing activity, including tendering and supplier selection
- Negotiate, draft and implement supplier contracts to maximise value and minimise risk
- Supplier & Stakeholder Management
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, influencing decision-making
- Manage supplier performance against KPIs, driving continuous improvement
- Develop strategic supplier partnerships to support innovation and service excellence
- Commercial & Value Delivery
- Deliver measurable savings including cost reduction, cost avoidance and efficiencies
- Lead commercial negotiations across your category areas
- Increase spend under contract and improve procurement compliance
- Risk, ESG & Continuous Improvement
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks in line with company policies
- Embed ESG principles and support Whistl’s net-zero ambitions
- Explore and adopt new technologies (including AI) to improve procurement processes
Requirements
Experience & Expertise
- 3–5 years’ experience in procurement or sourcing roles
- Proven track record in delivering sourcing strategies and commercial value
- Strong experience managing supplier performance and negotiating contracts
- Ability to deliver end-to-end procurement projects
Skills & Attributes
- Strong commercial mindset with excellent negotiation skills
- Confident stakeholder manager, able to challenge and influence at all levels
- Highly analytical with the ability to interpret data and identify opportunities
- Organised, detail-oriented and able to manage competing priorities
- Interest in ESG and sustainable supply chain practices
- Curiosity to leverage technology and AI to drive efficiencies
Qualifications
- Degree qualified (or equivalent experience) desirable
- CIPS qualification (or working towards) preferred
Procurement Specialist in Marlow employer: Whistl
Whistl is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development within a dynamic work culture. As a Procurement Specialist, you will not only contribute to impactful projects that align with our ESG and net-zero ambitions but also benefit from a supportive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. With a focus on measurable cost savings and supplier performance, you'll have the opportunity to make a significant difference while advancing your career in a forward-thinking company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist in Marlow
✨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 Whistl.
✨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 in Marlow
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 Whistl:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Whistl. 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 Whistl.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whistl
✨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 Whistl!
✨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 Whistl. 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 Whistl's culture.
