Overview
Job Title: Commercial & Procurement Manager - European Freight (Beverage Logistics)
Location: Thurrock, UK (Hybrid: 2 days home / 3 days office)
Salary: Up to £80,000 + car allowance + package
We are seeking a Commercial & Procurement Manager to take ownership of all commercial and procurement activities across our European transport operations, with a focus on intermodal, short sea, and road freight. This role is exclusively focused on beverage logistics, including wines, beer, and spirits. This is a strategic position for a commercially-minded professional who can drive cost-efficiencies, manage supplier relationships, and ensure compliance and transparency in all processes.
Responsibilities
* Lead end-to-end procurement processes for EU transport and freight within the beverage sector, including tendering, supplier selection, and contract negotiation.
* Develop and implement procurement and commercial strategies aligned with business objectives.
* Manage supplier relationships across European routes, monitor performance, and ensure capacity and service availability.
* Conduct market analysis, pricing strategies, and cost-saving initiatives.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Finance, Legal, Operations) to support commercial decision-making.
* Lead and develop the team, reporting performance, risks, and opportunities to senior management.
* Oversee procurement for intermodal, short sea, and road freight operations, ensuring efficiency and profitability.
Requirements
* Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, or related field; CIPS or equivalent preferred.
* 5+ years' experience in procurement/commercial management, ideally in European freight and intermodal/short sea operations.
* Strong negotiation skills and experience managing high-value contracts.
* Knowledge of procurement best practices, ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Coupa).
* Strategic thinker with excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Desirable
* Experience specifically in beverage logistics (wine, beer, spirits) across Europe.
* Understanding of sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
Travel
Extensive travel across Europe (60%) and the UK (40%).
If you're ready to lead procurement and commercial strategy in a dynamic beverage logistics environment, with hybrid working flexibility and a competitive package, apply today.
WR Logistics are the #1 recruitment partner for all vacancies in the logistics industry. We recruit UK wide for permanent and contract jobs.
WR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy
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