Head of Procurement - IT & tech

Salary: Competitive + £5,000 car allowance + bonus + exceptional benefits

Organisation: United Utilities – FTSE 100

United Utilities is transforming the way technology and digital innovation support our customers, our operations, and the future of the region. We’re looking for a Head of Procurement – IT & Tech to lead the commercial strategy behind this transformation.

This is a rare opportunity to shape multi‑million‑pound technology investments, influence enterprise‑wide decisions, and partner with senior leaders across a FTSE 100 organisation that’s committed to building a greener, stronger, healthier North West.

If you’re a senior commercial professional with deep expertise in IT, digital, and technology procurement — and you’re ready to lead at scale — this role puts you right at the heart of strategic impact.

Technology is evolving fast — and so are we. From cloud platforms and cybersecurity to digital customer solutions, data analytics, operational technology, and emerging tech, our IT & Tech landscape is expanding rapidly.

As Head of Procurement – IT & Tech, you’ll:

• Lead a high‑performing team across market strategy, sourcing, and supplier collaboration
• Influence more than £80 million of annual IT & Tech spend
• Shape category strategies worth £150 million+
• Drive innovation, value, and commercial performance across major programmes
• Partner with senior leaders to shape the future of digital capability at UU

This is a role with visibility, influence, and the freedom to drive meaningful change.

You’ll be part of a purpose‑driven FTSE 100 organisation that values innovation, inclusion, and long‑term sustainability. And you’ll enjoy a benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and lifestyle:

• 26–30 days’ annual leave + bank holidays
• Up to 21% combined pension contribution
• Up to 20% annual bonus
• Company‑funded private healthcare
• Flexible & hybrid working
• Gym discounts, wellbeing support, EV car scheme, Share Buy, and more
• Professional development including CIPS, leadership coaching, chartership pathways, and specialist tech training

This is a place where senior leaders grow, influence, and make a lasting impact.

As Head of Procurement – IT & Tech, you will:

• Lead a specialist spend category team across IT, digital, and technology services
• Build influential relationships with senior technology, digital, and business stakeholders
• Develop and execute complex, high‑value market strategies
• Drive multi‑million‑pound savings and commercial benefits
• Lead annual business planning for IT & Tech procurement
• Conduct external market benchmarking, trend analysis, and innovation scanning
• Ensure compliance with procurement policy and agile delivery of opportunities
• Be recognised internally and externally as a subject‑matter expert in IT & Tech procurement
• Bring fresh insights, innovation, and commercial thinking into the organisation
• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing commercial team with a clear succession plan

This is a strategic leadership role with hands‑on influence across the entire technology landscape.

We’re looking for a commercially sharp, tech‑savvy leader who can operate confidently in a complex, fast‑moving environment.

• Extensive experience in senior IT & Tech procurement or commercial leadership roles
• Proven success leading high‑value IT/Tech categories and strategic supplier relationships
• Strong negotiation, dispute resolution, and stakeholder influencing skills
• Experience in large, complex organisations
• Knowledge of IT governance, IT strategy, enterprise architecture, and digital delivery
• Understanding of Agile, Dev Ops, and IT service management
• Experience in regulated environments or utilities is a bonus

If you’re politically savvy, commercially astute, and passionate about shaping the future of technology procurement, this role will feel like home.

This is your chance to influence major technology decisions, lead a talented commercial team, and help shape the digital future of a region that millions depend on.

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, innovation, and commercial excellence, we’d love to hear from you.