Head of Procurement

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and driven Supply Chain & Procurement Manager to lead all procurement, planning, and inventory management activities at our South Yorkshire manufacturing site.

This is a key operational leadership role responsible for both direct and indirect procurement, manufacturing inventory planning, and end-to-end supply chain performance. You will ensure the site's supply chain operations deliver efficiency, cost savings, and continuity of supply, while aligning with Group procurement strategies and policies.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement

Own and manage the local procurement function for both direct materials and indirect goods/services spend circa £xxxxxx.

Lead supplier sourcing, negotiation, onboarding, and performance management.

Develop and implement procurement strategies that support site and Group objectives.

Deliver annual cost savings, improved cash conversion, and supplier performance KPI improvements.

Roll out and maintain supplier framework agreements to de-risk the supply base and ensure continuity.

Collaborate closely with Group Procurement to ensure compliance with corporate processes and policies.

Produce regular spend, savings, and performance analysis reports.

Ensure MRP is fully utilised for all purchasing activity (direct & indirect), and the order book is accurate in real time.

Lead and optimise the P2P (Procure-to-Pay) process.

Planning & Inventory

Lead the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process to align supply, demand, and financial objectives.

Build reliable demand forecasts in collaboration with Product Management, Sales, and Finance.

Oversee production planning and scheduling to ensure customer demand is met while optimising capacity and inventory.

Drive inventory efficiency, balancing stock availability with working capital targets.

Monitor key KPIs such as inventory turnover, DSI, and production schedule adherence.

Collaborate with Manufacturing, Maintenance, and Quality to minimise downtime and resolve bottlenecks.

Ensure all planning and scheduling processes are system-driven through ERP/MRP, not offline.

Document, maintain, and improve planning processes and procedures.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

Lead, coach, and develop a team across procurement and planning disciplines.

Set clear annual objectives and training plans aligned to company goals.

Champion continuous improvement initiatives across procurement and production planning.

Drive supplier innovation and foster collaborative partnerships.

Contribute to strategic supply chain initiatives and long-term business planning.

Key Skills & Experience

5-7 years' experience in supply chain, procurement, or planning leadership within a manufacturing or engineering environment.

Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, S&OP, and inventory optimisation.

Proven success delivering cost savings, improving supplier performance, and driving operational efficiency.

Excellent negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing stakeholder relationships at senior levels.

Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (Excel essential; IFS advantageous).

MCIPS qualification or equivalent is highly desirable.

What We Offer

Competitive salary (circa £70,000)

Excellent corporate benefits package

Opportunity to lead and shape a key operational function within a growing manufacturing business

Career progression within a supportive, forward-thinking organisation

About You

You are a strategic yet hands-on leader with a proven record of improving procurement efficiency and supply chain performance in a manufacturing setting. You thrive in fast-paced, multi-functional environments, and are motivated by driving measurable improvements in cost, service, and delivery performance.

Desired Skills and Experience

Indirect Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Planning, Procurement, Inventory