Head of Procurement - Financial Services
Our client, a growing UK financial institution, is seeking a Head of Procurement to lead and mature the organisation’s procurement and supplier management function. This role offers the opportunity to shape strategic sourcing, strengthen governance, and drive commercial excellence across a complex, regulated environment.
The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in strategic procurement, vendor management, and risk governance, ideally gained within financial services or another highly regulated sector.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the end-to-end procurement and supplier management strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory expectations.
* Oversee all third-party engagements, including contract negotiation, supplier onboarding, due diligence, and performance management.
* Partner with Legal, Risk, Finance, and Operations teams to ensure robust controls, cost efficiency, and compliance with PRA/FCA outsourcing guidelines.
* Develop and implement category strategies across technology, professional services, and operational suppliers.
* Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, introducing data-driven decision-making and automation tools where appropriate.
* Provide commercial leadership in major sourcing decisions, balancing cost optimisation with quality, resilience, and ESG priorities.
* Manage and mentor a small team of procurement and vendor management professionals.
* Own the procurement policy and governance framework, ensuring consistent application and regular review.
* Support the business in supplier risk assessments and contribute to operational resilience planning.
Skills & Experience Required
* 8+ years’ experience in procurement, vendor management, or strategic sourcing, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
* Proven success delivering cost efficiency and governance improvements within financial services, insurance, or another regulated industry.
* Strong knowledge of UK outsourcing and third-party risk regulations (PRA, FCA, EBA).
* Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership and drive cross-functional collaboration.
* Demonstrable commercial acumen and negotiation expertise across a range of categories.
* Experience implementing or improving procurement systems or frameworks.
* MCIPS qualification or equivalent professional certification (preferred).
* Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
Personal Attributes
* Strategic, pragmatic, and commercially minded.
* Strong governance mindset with a collaborative approach.
* Confident engaging with senior executives and external partners.
Package
* Performance-based bonus
* Hybrid working model (London-based HQ)
Location
London
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