Head Of Procurement - Derby

TN United Kingdom; Derby; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic and innovative company at the forefront of the UK rail industry as the Head of Procurement. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, and lead a team dedicated to operational excellence. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, you will play a key role in transforming the rail landscape. Enjoy a collaborative work environment, flexible working options, and a comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare and generous holiday leave. If you're ready to make a significant impact, this is the role for you!

Benefits

Private Healthcare

8% Company Pension Contribution

Free Parking

33 Days Holiday (incl PH)

Qualifications

• 5+ years of procurement leadership experience in rail or heavy engineering.
• Proven track record in supplier negotiation and contract management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of procurement strategies.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier performance.

Skills

Procurement Leadership

Supplier Negotiation

Contract Management

Cost Control

Stakeholder Management

Education

Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering

CIPS Level 4

Tools

ERP Systems

MS Office Suite

Job description

Derby HQ | Salary: Up to £55k + Benefits | Job Type: Full-time

About the Role

Be the driving force behind strategic procurement at the heart of the UK rail industry.

Our client is a prominent player in the UK rail sector — a market leader renowned for moving rolling stock, providing locomotive spot hire, and operating high-profile charter trains.

With innovation, reliability, and efficiency at their core, they're now looking for an exceptional procurement leader to help shape the future of their expanding operations.

This is a brand-new, career-defining opportunity for a talented individual to step into a key leadership role and make a real impact across the business.

As Head of Procurement, you'll join the Senior Leadership Team and take full ownership of the procurement function — setting the strategy, overseeing supplier relationships, managing budgets, and ensuring the best value for money. From strategic sourcing and contract negotiations to driving efficiencies and supporting project delivery, you’ll be at the heart of a business that’s reshaping the rail landscape.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design and implementation of a procurement strategy aligned with business goals and growth plans.

Deliver value for money on all purchasing requirements across multiple projects and departments.

Build strong internal and external partnerships, ensuring procurement supports operational excellence.

Negotiate contracts, pricing, and service agreements to reduce risks and maximise long-term value.

Manage supplier performance through regular reviews, audits, and improvement plans.

Monitor procurement KPIs and report on cost-saving initiatives.

Maintain and evolve procurement policies, ensuring full compliance and best practice.

Work closely with Finance Business Partners to align procurement with budgeting and forecasting goals.

Travel as needed to meet stakeholders and suppliers, with flexibility for site visits and operational support.

What We're Looking For:

Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field.

CIPS Level 4 minimum, ideally working towards Level 5 or MCIPS accreditation.

Proven procurement leadership experience – ideally 5+ years in rail, transport, or heavy engineering.

Deep understanding of supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost control.

Experience in both public and private procurement environments (desirable).

Knowledge of rail industry standards, infrastructure materials, or rolling stock components (highly advantageous).

Proficiency in ERP systems and MS Office Suite.

A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.

Why Join?

Our client isn’t just moving trains — they’re moving the industry forward. Join a dynamic and growing team where you’ll be empowered to lead, innovate, and deliver real impact from day one.

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to influence the procurement direction of one of the UK’s most exciting rail businesses.

You’ll join them on a transformative journey - their new locomotives are the first in class in the UK, state-of-the-art, tri-mode locomotives and feature a range of new and revolutionary technology!

As well, you will:

Enjoy a great team environment, challenges and a job free from boring daily routines

Collaborate with diverse teams and helpful colleagues

Contribute to innovative projects

Utilise our client’s agile working environment (flexible work times and hybrid working)

Work for a company who describes themselves and family orientated and fun to work with!

The role comes with Private Healthcare, 8% Company Pension contribution, free parking and 33 days holiday (incl PH).

If you feel this role sounds right for you or if you know someone who may be interested, then please get in touch.

This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of RecruitME who are acting as a recruitment agency.

RecruitME is committed to equal opportunity and diversity and embraces applications from all sections of society, regardless of sexual orientation, race, age, gender identity, sex, disability, marital status, religion, or belief.

RecruitME is also committed to work alongside veterans and ex-servicemen and women.

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Created on 26/04/2025 by TN United Kingdom