Head of Direct Procurement

About the role

The leading manufacturing organisation is looking for a Head of Direct Procurement to steer a high‑performing category team and own a strategic direct spend portfolio. You will shape category strategies, drive cost‑reduction programmes and enhance supply‑chain resilience across critical direct categories.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Category Managers.
• Design and execute category strategies, sourcing initiatives and contract negotiations.
• Deliver sustainable cost savings and improve working capital.
• Strengthen supplier performance, manage risk and increase contracted spend.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Planning, Finance and Supply Chain stakeholders.
• Champion continuous improvement of procurement processes, systems and ways of working.

Required profile

• Proven procurement leadership experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Strong expertise in category management, sourcing and contract management.
• Demonstrated record of delivering measurable savings and commercial value.
• Experience in supplier relationship management and risk mitigation.
• Data‑driven, commercially astute and able to influence senior stakeholders.
• CIPS qualification or progress towards it is desirable.

Required skills

What we offer

• High level of autonomy and ownership of procurement strategy.
• Opportunity to shape team capability and influence business direction.
• Significant visibility with senior stakeholders.
• Competitive salary, bonus and clear long‑term career progression.