Strategic Sourcing Manager

Role: Strategic Sourcing Manager

Rate: £600/day Umbrella - Inside IR35

Contract Length: 6 Months

Location: Hybrid Working - 60% office-based

Thursdays must be worked from Network Rail's Milton Keynes HQ, remaining office days based at Milton Keynes, London, or Birmingham offices.

About the Company

We are currently seeking an experienced Strategic Sourcing Manager to join a high-performing procurement function supporting major infrastructure and business-critical procurement programmes at Network Rail.

About the Role

This is a strategic leadership role focused on governance, assurance, procurement compliance, and sourcing excellence across complex, high-value procurement activities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage sourcing teams delivering complex procurement and tendering activities
• Oversee end-to-end tender events and ensure adherence to procurement governance frameworks
• Develop and deliver sourcing strategies for high-value procurement projects
• Provide assurance across procurement activities, ensuring documentation and processes are compliant and accurate
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders, including Heads of Function and Directors
• Support category planning and procurement strategy development
• Drive continuous improvement, governance, and best practice across procurement activities
• Mentor and develop procurement professionals within the team

Qualifications

• Strong public sector procurement experience
• Proven leadership experience managing procurement or sourcing teams
• MCIPS qualified (or equivalent professional accreditation)
• Significant experience delivering sourcing projects within complex environments
• Strong understanding of governance, assurance, compliance, and public procurement regulations
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and operate in complex organisations
• Experience managing high-value procurement activity and strategic sourcing programmes
• Ability to hit the ground running in a fast-paced environment