Head of Procurement

international recruitment & hr experts across the plastics, packaging, speciality chemicals, life sciences, biopolymer, food additives & ingredients, energy and recycling sectors since 1975.

manufacturer of plastic safety critical products

based in derbyshire

job /65248

salary: attractive

our client is a leading manufacturer where robust and effective procurement processes are an integral part of business performance and growth objectives. The company is looking to strengthen its purchasing expertise; particularly drive improvements in the procurement function and provide clearer leadership to the team. The role reports into the director of operations.

to lead the procurement function by developing and delivering the procurement strategy, coordinating procurement activities, and ensuring effective strategic sourcing of key raw materials, including resin.

• develop, communicate and deliver the procurement strategy and supporting business plan in line with company strategy; set short-, medium- and long-term departmental goals to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
• critically evaluate procurement processes and lead the development and implementation of best-practice improvements.
• take the lead role in key supplier negotiations and development of contractual terms and conditions & review current key supplier contracts and identify areas for improvement leading to the tendering process.
• lead the strategic sourcing of key raw materials, including resin, to secure supply continuity, value, quality and commercial competitiveness.
• drive value improvement in the cost per unit manufactured by working closely with manufacturing, planning and supplier partners to identify cost reduction, efficiency and value engineering opportunities across direct costs, indirect costs, capex and opex.
• promote close working relationships with all stakeholder departments including and especially, manufacturing, planning, logistics.
• develop and implement supplier excellence and vendor rating procedures in conjunction with safety, quality, environmental and social policy
• ensure procurement activities, supplier onboarding, contractual arrangements and sourcing decisions comply with company policies, legal requirements, ethical standards and relevant safety, quality, environmental and social governance requirements.

• proven procurement professional with a strong track record in manufacturing is essential.
• working in a purchasing role that involves negotiating with international blue‑chip suppliers
• experience developing and delivering procurement strategy, including strategic sourcing of raw materials such as resin.
• experience of 3pl contracts.

• ideally expertise in managing 3rd party manufacturers.
• develop, communicate and administer procurement team performance, individual appraisal and development plans to: demonstrate a high level of day‑to‑day control and responsiveness; a focus on driving performance improvement and improvement of business processes.
• drive effective communication and motivation in the team. Develop and mentor direct reports and provide the tools by which they can deliver their objectives.

• analytical and critical thinker
• strong character – durable and resilient
• positive leadership skills – can direct and mentor team
• good communicator (written and verbal)
• strategic and innovative thinker with strong analytical skills
• organized and calm under pressure
• approachable, flexible, durable and resilient
• proactive, positive, enthusiastic – demonstrates ‘can do’ approach
• change agent – able to create a vision and deliver best‑in‑class processes
• commercially aware and strong negotiator

head of procurement, head of purchasing,…