Shillito Executive Search are seeking an experienced and commercially savvy Global Procurement Manager/Director to join a growing manufacturing team based in South Yorkshire.

This individual will be responsible for managing and optimising the global supply chain strategy, ensuring a balanced approach between Far East, Turkish, and local suppliers to mitigate fluctuations in raw material prices and freight costs and ensure cost-effective, efficient procurement practices.

The role will focus primarily on the European factories, with the US included in broader conversations.

Reporting to the COO, the responsibilities of this role will include:

Strategic Supply Chain Management:

• Develop and execute a balanced supply chain strategy across the Far East, Turkey, and UK to hedge against market fluctuations, manage forecasting variability, and control costs.
• Ensure alignment between procurement strategies and the company’s long-term goals, leveraging international suppliers for a diverse and resilient supply chain.
• Supplier Relationship Management:
• Cultivate and manage long-term relationships with global suppliers, particularly in China, the Far East, and Europe.
• Attend trade fairs and travel to meet suppliers and customers as required, building a network of contacts to support business objectives.
• Work closely with suppliers to monitor and improve quality standards, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality supply.
• Procurement Process Optimisation:
• Drive process improvements across the procurement function, focusing on efficiency and cost-saving initiatives.
• Lead the centralisation of global procurement processes.
• Establish new procedures and processes to streamline procurement operations and support business needs.
• Quality and Cost Control:
• Collaborate with factories to assess quality standards, evaluate the costs of poor quality, and drive improvements in quality assurance processes.
• Effectively communicate quality and cost expectations to suppliers and monitor supplier performance.
• Commercial Acumen & Negotiation:
• Negotiate contracts, manage RFPs, and engage in cost management activities to secure the best commercial terms for the business.
• Utilise analytical tools to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and optimise purchasing strategies.
• Inventory Management:
• Oversee inventory management practices, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimising the risks of stockouts or excess inventory.
• Identify opportunities to improve ordering processes and automate where feasible to reduce manual processes.
• Change Management and Continuous Improvement:
• Lead initiatives to drive procurement process automation and streamline ordering and invoicing processes.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement team and the wider business.

We’re looking for someone with:

•  * Extensive experience in procurement or supply chain management within manufacturing or industrial sectors.
  

• Proven experience in sourcing from China/Far East and Turkish markets, as well as managing a diverse, global supplier base.
• Strong background in supplier negotiations, contract management, and RFP processes.

This role presents a unique opportunity to join a rapidly growing company, with a focus on driving change and innovation in procurement practices.

If you are an experienced procurement professional with a passion for global supply chains, supplier relationships, and continuous improvement, we invite you to apply.

Shillito Executive Search specialises in finding top-tier executive talent for leadership, management, and board-level positions in the manufacturing industry.

We have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the sector and pride ourselves on doing the right things well.

People are our business.