Head of Procurement (clear progression to Head of Procurement - Europe)
Location
High Wycombe - Hybrid Working available
Salary & Benefits
* Salary up to £91,000
* 15% annual bonus
Overview
We are seeking a Head of Procurement to join a growing food manufacturing business at a key point of transition and expansion across Europe. This role replaces the current Procurement Manager, who will be leaving mid-March due to relocation. The position has been uplifted to reflect the increasing strategic importance of procurement within the business. You will join a small, agile procurement function and work closely with a newly appointed Senior Buyer. The role is both strategic and hands‑on, offering a clear pathway into a future Head of Procurement - Europe position as the business continues to grow.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic
* Develop and drive procurement strategy across the UK and Europe
* Support business growth by identifying sourcing opportunities and improvements
* Implement best‑practice procurement processes and standards
* Protect margins through effective cost management and supplier strategy
Operational
* Day-to-day buying of ingredients and raw materials
* Supplier management, performance reviews, and relationship development
* Contract negotiation and management
* Leading tendering and sourcing activities
* Delivering cost savings initiatives
* Ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and internal requirements
* Supporting and leading BRC audits and supplier compliance
Team & Stakeholders
* Manage and work closely with a Senior Buyer
* Collaborate with Operations, Technical, Finance, and Commercial teams
* Engage with suppliers across the UK and Europe
Experience & Background
* Proven procurement experience within food manufacturing, ingredients, or raw materials
* Strong understanding of BRC standards and audit requirements
* Experience across both strategic procurement and hands‑on buying
* Demonstrated success in cost saving, supplier negotiation, and margin protection
Person Profile
* Ready to step up into a broader leadership role rather than already operating at full European Head level
* Comfortable working in a lean team and being operationally involved
* Commercially minded, proactive, and improvement‑focused
* Confident influencing stakeholders at all levels
Why Join
* Clear progression into a European leadership role
* Opportunity to shape procurement strategy during a period of growth
* Established role with strong foundations already in place
#J-18808-Ljbffr