Procurement Manager - Direct Spend (FMCG)

About the role

A global and diverse FMCG business is recruiting a Senior Procurement Manager for a direct spend role in Cambridgeshire, advertised by 1st Executive. The position is hybrid and sits alongside the Head of Procurement, covering defined Packaging and Ingredient categories together with relevant site teams.

Key responsibilities

• Build and execute category strategies and own the sourcing process for Packaging and Ingredient categories
• Maintain a prioritised pipeline of projects to create value, reduce risk and support sustainability and innovation goals
• Lead tenders, RFx, evaluation, negotiation and award recommendations
• Drive adoption of preferred suppliers, catalogue buying and contract compliance
• Manage framework agreements and pricing structures
• Manage supplier relationships through segmentation, scorecards, corrective action plans and continuous improvement, resolving escalations and disputes
• Identify and mitigate supply risks (single source, capacity, logistics, geopolitical, ESG, financial) and implement contingency plans for critical supplies
• Understand key legislation and market drivers, and coach buyers and team members where applicable

Required profile

• Proven experience managing complex direct spend categories in a multi-site or matrix organisation
• Ability to travel regularly across the UK and potentially Europe to share best practice and visit suppliers and sites

Required skills

• Strategic sourcing and negotiation, including high-value tenders and contract frameworks
• Deep understanding of commercial risk, contract structures and supplier performance mechanisms
• Highly effective stakeholder management