Section Manager - Procurement

• Work in a top tier company in the industry
• Be in a position to drive growth, change management & continuous improvement

About Our Client An established aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) organisation is seeking an experienced Section Manager, Procurement to lead procurement operations and support the company's continued growth and operational excellence.

This position will be responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies, managing supplier relationships, overseeing sourcing activities, and ensuring the timely acquisition of goods and services required to support manufacturing, maintenance, and operational requirements. The role will play a key part in driving cost optimisation, supplier performance, inventory efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives across the procurement function.

The successful candidate will lead a team of procurement professionals while working closely with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement objectives align with business goals, regulatory requirements, and customer commitments.

Job Description Procurement Strategy & Leadership

• Lead and manage the Procurement Section in achieving departmental and organisational objectives.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies that support operational requirements and long-term business growth.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement efficiency, supplier performance, and cost competitiveness.
• Establish and monitor procurement KPIs to ensure performance targets are achieved.
• Lead, coach, and develop procurement team members while fostering a high-performance culture.
• Support change management initiatives and drive process enhancement projects across the procurement function.

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for direct and indirect materials, equipment, services, and subcontracted activities.
• Identify, evaluate, qualify, and onboard suppliers to ensure a competitive and reliable supply base.
• Lead supplier negotiations covering commercial terms, pricing, contracts, service levels, and long-term agreements.
• Build strong supplier partnerships to improve quality, delivery performance, and overall value.
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Support supplier development initiatives to improve supplier capabilities and operational performance.

Cost Management & Contract Negotiation

• Drive cost reduction and cost avoidance initiatives while maintaining quality and delivery standards.
• Analyse spending patterns and identify opportunities for procurement optimisation.
• Lead commercial negotiations to secure favourable pricing, payment terms, and contractual agreements.
• Monitor commodity trends, market conditions, and supply chain risks that may impact procurement activities.
• Develop mitigation strategies to minimise supply disruptions and cost volatility.

Supply Chain & Inventory Management

• Collaborate with Operations, Production Planning, Engineering, Quality, and Finance teams to ensure material availability.
• Support inventory optimisation initiatives while balancing operational requirements and working capital objectives.
• Monitor supplier delivery performance and resolve supply-related issues to avoid disruptions.
• Manage procurement activities supporting production schedules, repair operations, and customer commitments.
• Ensure effective planning and forecasting processes with suppliers.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, industry regulations, and quality management requirements.
• Maintain compliance with contractual, import/export, and regulatory requirements where applicable.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure procurement documentation is maintained accurately.
• Promote ethical sourcing practices and adherence to procurement governance standards.

Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, and Senior Management teams to support business objectives.
• Act as a key point of contact for procurement-related matters across the organisation.
• Provide procurement insights, market intelligence, and recommendations to management.
• Support cross-functional initiatives including supplier localisation, process improvements, risk management, and business continuity planning.

The Successful Applicant

• Minimum 8-10 years of procurement, sourcing, or supply chain experience within aerospace, manufacturing, engineering, MRO, or other regulated industries.
• Proven experience managing both direct and indirect procurement categories.
• Strong background in supplier management, contract negotiation, and strategic sourcing.
• Experience leading procurement teams and managing stakeholder relationships across multiple functions.
• Demonstrated track record of delivering cost savings and procurement process improvements.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or equivalent procurement platforms.

What's On Offer

• Be part of a globally recognised organisation.
• Work in a dynamic, innovative environment with opportunities for growth.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits package

Quote job ref: JN-102026-7117970