The Role
The successful candidate will lead the development and continuous improvement of indirect procurement and purchasing processes, working closely with operations, engineering, finance, and supply chain teams to optimise cost, enhance supplier performance, and ensure uninterrupted site operations. This position plays a critical role in driving efficiency, cost control, and cross-functional collaboration across the Gainsborough and Burnley sites, while also supporting selected direct categories such as inks and solvents.
Key Responsibilities
Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Finance, Technical, and Commercial teams, working closely with the Procurement function to deliver an effective indirect procurement strategy across both sites
Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of indirect procurement processes and systems, ensuring they are fit for purpose and aligned to business needs
Develop and embed category management strategies across indirect spend areas including MRO, services, CapEx, utilities, logistics, and facilities
Support and contribute to SIOP-related activities where indirect procurement impacts operational planning and delivery
Work closely with senior procurement leadership and stakeholders to analyse spend data, supplier performance, and market trends to identify cost-saving opportunities
Conduct detailed spend analysis across indirect categories, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities to drive efficiency and value
Manage supplier relationships and performance, ensuring delivery against agreed KPIs, SLAs, and contractual obligations
Lead contract negotiations and renewals for key indirect categories, ensuring commercial value and risk mitigation
Support procurement activities relating to inks and solvents, ensuring alignment with production requirements and cost targets
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across procurement processes, supplier performance, and cost management
Develop and manage demand planning and purchasing strategies for indirect categories to ensure continuity of supply
Identify and implement cost reduction initiatives, including supplier consolidation and process efficiencies
Monitor, report, and improve supplier performance, service delivery, and material/service availability
Promote best practice and a culture of continuous improvement across procurement and supplier management activitiesKey Requirements
Experience in procurement, supply chain, or indirect purchasing within a manufacturing or industrial environment
Strong knowledge of ERP systems and procurement tools
Experience in supplier management, contract negotiation, and category management
Proven ability to analyse data and deliver actionable insight
Experience in preparing and delivering presentations to stakeholders at all levels
Strong strategic and tactical thinking capability
Excellent project management and organisational skills
Strong communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders
Ability to work in a confidential and professional manner
High attention to detail with a thorough and accurate approach
Ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple tasks effectively
Calm under pressure with a proactive, positive, and "can do" attitude
CIPS qualification (or working towards) is desirableSalary & Benefits
A competitive salary starting between £40,000 and £45,000 plus a strong benefits package is on offer. The role is based in Gainsborough with responsibility supporting the Burnley site. This position offers the opportunity to play a key role in shaping procurement strategy, driving cost efficiencies, and enhancing supplier performance within a dynamic and operationally diverse manufacturing environment
Salary description
£40000.00 - £45000.00 per year