Director of Procurement

2 weeks ago

Nottingham, United Kingdom (SLS) Scientific Laboratory Supplies Ltd. Full time
Job Description

Job Summary:

We have a rare and exciting opportunity for a Procurement Director to join our innovative & fast paced business on a hybrid basis based in Nottingham 3 days a week.


As Procurement Director you will be responsible for leading the Procurement Team and ensuring the ongoing development of our procurement activities. Your primary duties will include management of the team to achieve company objectives and optimise service levels whilst closely controlling inventory to maximise performance and cashflow.


Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Procurement Leadership

  • Develop and implement a forward-looking procurement strategy that aligns with the company’s vision and values whilst focusing on cost efficiency, supplier quality, and ethical sourcing.
  • Analyse market trends, industry shifts, and demand forecasts to optimise procurement processes and ensure reliable product availability.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost-saving measures for discussion/ agreement with the Board.


People Management and Team Development

  • Lead, inspire, and mentor the procurement team, fostering a positive work environment that values accountability, innovation, and collaboration
  • Implement clear goal-setting, regular performance evaluations, and ongoing feedback processes to drive individual and team development.
  • Facilitate team training and development, ensuring team members are equipped with the skills and resources needed to meet evolving business requirements.
  • Promote cross-functional communication, encouraging knowledge sharing and best practices within and beyond the procurement team.


Vendor Relations and Contract Negotiation

  • Ensure that we build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with UK and international suppliers, negotiating favourable terms to support company goals.
  • Oversee contract negotiations, ensuring alignment with quality, pricing, and compliance objectives.
  • Ensure regular supplier performance reviews using key performance indicators (KPIs), maintaining high standards of quality, cost efficiency, and reliability.


Budgeting and Cost Management

  • Manage the procurement department’s budget, ensuring that costs are closely managed and that agreed investments deliver the expected value.
  • Develop and execute cost control strategies that balance savings with service enhancements and business stability.
  • Implement proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with price volatility, currency exposure, and supply chain disruptions.
  • Active management of the inbound freight budget.


Inventory and Supply Chain Optimisation

  • Formal “Ownership” of Inventory at the Board level.
  • Oversee collaboration between Procurement, Sales Inventory and Warehouse teams to achieve optimal stock levels, reducing the risk of overstock and stockouts.
  • Coordinate closely with logistics to streamline the supply chain and maintain inventory flow that supports business demands.
  • Conduct supplier audits and monitor inventory levels to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.


Compliance and Risk Management

  • Ensure all procurement activities meet UK regulatory standards, company policies, and ethical sourcing practices.
  • Identify, assess, and manage risks within the supply chain, establishing protocols for quality control, supplier accountability, and compliance.
  • Develop and implement procurement policies and procedures that foster transparency, ethical practice, and consistency of service delivery.


The Ideal Candidate

  • Minimum 5+ years working in a Purchasing / Procurement environment
  • Significant knowledge and experience of a reseller / distribution environment with either the public or private sectors.
  • Fellow or Member of The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS)
  • Proven expertise in supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost optimisation.
  • Have proven negotiation skills, influential and assertive with tact and diplomacy. Can demonstrate a track record of change within procurement and work with people of all levels and skill sets.
  • Highly organised with the ability to manage a team and deal with conflicting priorities.
  • A leader with demonstrable experience of inspiring, coaching, developing and motivating staff.
  • Can demonstrate resilience and have a flexible attitude to deliver change within a dynamic and changing work environment.
  • Office 365 and General IT Competency
  • Able to maintain and raise the profile of Procurement within the business and the wider SLS and Dutscher Groups.
  • Well-developed and effective verbal, written, presentation and interpersonal communication skills, in both formal and informal situations.


About us:


SLS are the UK’s largest independent supplier of laboratory equipment, chemicals and consumables. Because of our independence, we have a unique approach to sourcing and supplying the highest quality, best value products and brands. Supplying to a wide range of sectors, provides a diverse and interesting customer base as well as providing countless opportunity to grow and expand.


With a Nottingham based Head Office, with customers all over the UK, we are a stable and growing company who have an excellent reputation in the market.

We are passionate about our people and have developed a strong team dynamic who are welcoming and supportive of new individuals joining the company with a brilliant management team to support you as your find your feet in the role.


We are also proud to be a Living Wage Employer and committed to equal opportunities and actively promote a diverse and inclusive working environment, and fairness for everyone.


Alongside our commitment to your professional and personal development, we also offer a generous benefits package including:

  • Competitive salary
  • 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
  • Company pension
  • Enhanced Maternity and Paternity leave
  • Small, friendly, and sociable teams with staff events
  • Company profit bonus schemes
  • Cycle2work schemes
  • Free parking at all our UK sites
  • Career opportunities for development and progression

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