Procurement Manager (FTC)

The Role

We are looking for a seasoned Procurement Manager with a strong background in manufacturing and supply chain management to take ownership of procurement activity across the business.
This is an important role, particularly as the business prepares for a significant increase in order intake. The successful candidate will ensure that procurement processes, suppliers and supply chains are equipped to support demand, while working closely with internal departments to ensure projects move efficiently from design through to supply chain.
You will be responsible for developing and establishing new supply chains, managing supplier relationships and ensuring materials and components are sourced effectively, competitively and on time.
The role will suit someone who is comfortable working within an SME environment, can operate both strategically and hands-on, and has the experience to make a real difference within a growing manufacturing business.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the procurement function, ensuring it can support increasing order volumes and business demands.
• Manage the procurement process from design handover through to supply chain, ensuring requirements are clearly communicated and actioned.
• Work closely with the design and engineering teams to ensure all relevant information is transferred effectively into the supply chain.
• Develop, establish and manage new supply chains to support business growth and operational requirements.
• Identify, source and onboard new suppliers, both locally and internationally.
• Explore and establish overseas sourcing opportunities, including working with agencies or partners managing Chinese suppliers.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring quality, cost and delivery expectations are achieved.
• Manage supplier performance, lead times, pricing and purchasing activity.
• Ensure the effective use of the company's ERP system to manage purchasing, orders, stock and supplier information.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement activity aligns with production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, supply chain efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Support the business through a period of increased order intake and continued growth.

About You

We are looking for an experienced procurement professional who can bring structure, knowledge and commercial awareness to the role.
Ideally, you will have:

• Proven experience in a Procurement Manager or senior procurement position.
• A strong background in manufacturing and industrial supply chains.
• Experience using ERP systems and managing purchasing processes through an ERP platform.
• A good understanding of the relationship between design, engineering, procurement and production.
• Experience establishing new supply chains and developing supplier networks.
• Experience sourcing internationally and managing overseas suppliers; knowledge of Chinese supply chains would be advantageous.
• The ability to manage increased order volumes while maintaining control of cost, quality and delivery.
• Experience working within an SME environment, where a flexible, hands-on approach is essential.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent organisational, negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• A proactive approach, with the confidence to take ownership and drive improvements.

What We Are Looking For

This is an opportunity for an experienced individual who can come into the business, understand existing processes and quickly make an impact.
You will be a confident communicator who can build relationships across the business and externally with suppliers. You will also be comfortable working independently, identifying opportunities and putting the right supply chain processes in place to support future growth.
Previous experience within a manufacturing SME would be particularly beneficial.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary of £50,000-£55,000 depending on experience.
• January start preferred, ideally allowing for a handover period.
• Initially office-based to support onboarding and integration into the business.
• Greater flexibility around working arrangements once established in the role.
• The opportunity to take ownership of procurement and make a tangible contribution to a growing manufacturing business.