The Opportunity:
You will lead purchasing and supply chain activity across a multi-site manufacturing/distribution operation, driving structure, consistency, and best practice throughout the group. This is an exciting opportunity with a growing engineering/manufacturing group seeking a hands-on Group Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager to take ownership of procurement and supply chain operations across multiple UK business units.
This is a high-impact role offering the chance to build, transform and improve an evolving supply chain function, moving it from reactive to proactive through process improvement, ERP enhancement, and strategic supply chain leadership.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage all purchasing activity across the group
* Develop and implement group-wide procurement and supply chain strategy
* Lead supplier performance, supplier reviews, and cost control initiatives
* Drive commercial negotiations and supplier relationship management
* Introduce structured procurement governance, KPIs, and reporting
* Implement S&OP and demand planning processes
* Improve stock control, inventory management, and working capital performance
* Introduce category management and supplier segmentation
* Drive continuous improvement and embed operational best practice
* Initially operate in a standalone capacity, with future scope to build a team
Budget Responsibility
Oversight of circa £3.5M purchasing spend, including:
* £1M Raw Materials – Metals, components, and manufacturing inputs
What We’re Looking For:
PLEASE NOTE: We are specifically seeking candidates from SME backgrounds.
This role will NOT suit individuals from large corporate / heavily matrixed organisations who are used to highly resourced procurement functions.
To be considered, you will need:
* Proven procurement / supply chain experience within SME manufacturing and/or distribution businesses
* Experience operating in hands-on, resource-light environments
* Strong ERP / MRP systems experience (implementation or optimisation highly advantageous)
* Excellent supplier management and commercial negotiation skills
* Experience improving processes, controls, and operational efficiencies
* A proactive, organised, change-oriented mindset
* Ability to operate strategically whilst remaining detail-focused and hands-on
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to:
* Take ownership of procurement across multiple businesses
* Lead genuine transformation projects
* Build and shape the supply chain function
* Have visible impact in a business where your work will be recognised
If this sounds like the type of environment where you thrive, apply today for a confidential discussion.
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