Strategic Sourcing DirectorLocation: LondonBusiness Area: Foodbuy GroupSalary: Competitive benefitsAbout Foodbuy GroupFoodbuy Group is the UK's largest food procurement organisation, managing over £2bn of spend across food, non‑food and retail‑adjacent categories. Proudly part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, we work directly with manufacturers and growers to deliver commercial value, supply resilience and responsible sourcing for a diverse portfolio of clients.At Foodbuy, commercial rigour, clarity of thinking and disciplined execution matter. We are building a sourcing function that is strategic, insight‑led and uncompromising on delivery.The RoleThe Strategic Sourcing Director sets the direction for Foodbuy's sourcing strategy and leads a high‑performing team delivering meaningful, measurable value across a multi‑hundred‑million‑pound spend.This is a senior leadership role requiring strong commercial judgement, exceptional negotiation capability and the ability to bring structure and pace to complex environments. You will ensure sourcing is a proactive, results‑driven partner to the business—driving cost leadership, supply resilience, innovation and long‑term value creation.You will operate at pace, lead from the front on critical negotiations, and raise the overall sophistication of sourcing across strategy, governance, tools and capability.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn and lead Foodbuy's sourcing strategy across all major categories, ensuring clear priorities and strong commercial foundationsDeliver best‑in‑class sourcing execution, embedding consistent, transparent and compliant processesLead high‑value, complex sourcing programmes delivering improvements across cost, quality, service, innovation and riskPersonally lead and support major supplier negotiations, ensuring Foodbuy's scale and standards are fully realisedStrengthen alignment across Category Development, Clients, Supply Chain, Sustainability and OperationsEnhance sourcing sophistication through SKU optimisation, risk mitigation, supplier‑led innovation and data‑driven decision‑makingChampion modern sourcing tools, systems and methodologies, including e‑sourcing platformsBuild, lead and develop a high‑performing sourcing team, strengthening capability in negotiation, governance and commercial judgementWhat We're Looking ForEssentialSenior leadership experience in sourcing, procurement or commercial strategyProven delivery of significant, measurable commercial resultsOutstanding negotiation capability with major, complex suppliers (non‑negotiable)Strong analytical capability with the ability to use insight to shape strategyExperience leading multiple high‑value sourcing initiatives concurrentlyStrong governance, risk management and process disciplineDesirableExperience within GPOs, buying groups or multi‑client environmentsExposure to responsible sourcing, ESG and supply‑risk managementFamiliarity with modern e‑sourcing tools and procurement technologiesLeadership Style & AttributesCommercially driven and outcomes‑focusedStructured, decisive and calm under pressureCredible senior‑level stakeholder influencerLow ego, high integrity, and comfortable leading in ambiguityStrategic thinker with a hands‑on delivery mindsetWhy Join FoodbuyInfluence procurement strategy at national scaleOperate in a commercially serious, delivery‑focused environmentWork with senior stakeholders across Compass Group UK & IrelandLead a function with real opportunity to raise standards and shape the futureREED