Procurement & Cost Optimisation Manager

Procurement & Cost Optimisation Manager Role Purpose The Procurement & Cost Optimisation Manager will lead the Group's procurement strategy and cost optimisation agenda, delivering savings aligned to annual budgets. This hands-on leadership role requires an experienced procurement professional to identify cost-saving opportunities, lead sourcing initiatives and ensure benefits are realised in the P&L. Working closely with key stakeholders, the role will strengthen procurement capability, improve supplier performance and support sustainable business growth. Key Responsibilities Procurement Strategy & Delivery Develop and implement a Group-wide procurement strategy across indirect spend categories. Deliver sourcing initiatives aligned to business priorities and budgets. Drive supplier consolidation, demand management and procurement best practice. Cost Savings, Planning & Control Own and deliver the annual procurement savings agenda. Analyse spend data to identify and prioritise cost-saving opportunities. Track and report savings delivery with Finance to ensure P&L impact. Supplier Management & Commercial Negotiation Lead supplier negotiations, tenders and contract renewals. Manage supplier performance through KPIs and review processes. Manage commercial, operational and contractual risks. Governance & Compliance Maintain procurement policies, controls and approval frameworks. Improve contract management, compliance and spend governance. Stakeholder Engagement Partner with stakeholders across Finance, Retail, Operations, Supply Chain, IT, Property and HR. Provide commercial support and promote value-driven decision-making. Leadership Lead, develop and mentor the procurement team. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and results delivery. Candidate Profile Experience Significant procurement experience with indirect spend responsibility. Proven record of delivering measurable cost savings. Experience in retail, FMCG, wholesale, distribution or similar commercial environments. Experience building or transforming procurement functions desirable. Skills & Competencies Strong commercial, financial and analytical capability. Excellent negotiation, influencing and stakeholder management skills. Able to operate strategically while remaining hands-on. Qualifications Degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain or related discipline. CIPS or equivalent qualification desirable. Success Measures Delivery of procurement savings, improved supplier performance, stronger compliance and governance, successful procurement transformation and positive stakeholder engagement.