- Work with Contract owners to assist with all commercial matters, educate and coach others to improve buying practices.
- Creation of an annual procurement plan based around the IT department's budget and project plans that secures stakeholder buy-in and is geared around the business cost saving targets and wider company vision
- Closely manage contract cover across the business's Technology supplier to drive improvements to spend under contract, and in contract management practices.
- Lead and manage RFPs (Request for Proposals) with new and existing suppliers, aligned to the overall supplier strategy
- Act as the principal conduit for formal communications with external companies during the procurement process and participate directly in the negotiation of key contracts to obtain the best outcome possible for the business.
- Proactively manage relationships with senior stakeholders to deliver great commercial outcomes.
- Drive the SRM (Supplier Relationship Management) programme to ensure the development of close synergistic working relationships with key suppliers and stakeholders
- Play an active role in the company's Sustainability plan to include ethical and responsible sourcing
- Drive best practice processes and governance across all procurement, contract management, and supplier management activity across Europe
- Actively seek alternative, or innovative solutions to meet the changing demands of the business
- At least 5 years of experience in managing IT procurement in a fast-paced environment (Retail or FMCG)
- Commercial negotiation and supplier management experience with a track record delivering cost savings, service improvements, and supplier innovation.
- Proven stakeholder influencing skills, able to engage & manage senior managers and present results in a structured and professional manner at Director level
- Proven track record in supplier development and commercial cost reduction
- Extensive knowledge of IT service agreements, Licensing and SAAS agreements
- Deep experience of running competitive procurement exercises (RFP's, RFQ's etc) coupled with a pragmatic approach that balances outcomes, and business risk with urgency and resources.
- Significant experience managing high value and strategic procurement projects
- Working towards, or MCIPS qualified (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply)