Head of Purchasing

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS); Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in procurement is seeking a Head of Purchasing to define and execute global supply chain strategies. The role includes managing procurement activities, optimizing costs, and building supplier relationships. Ideal candidates will have MCIPS qualifications, extensive experience in supply chain management, and strong leadership capabilities. This pivotal position offers exciting challenges within a growing company.

Qualifications

• Extensive supply chain experience in technology industries.
• Team management experience is essential.
• Ability to influence at senior levels.

Responsibilities

• Develop procurement strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers.
• Lead a team of procurement professionals.

Skills

Cost Management

Negotiation Skills

Supply Chain Management

Team Leadership

Analytical Skills

Education

MCIPS qualification

A relevant degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft AX

Job description

09th June, 2025

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team of Purchasing professionals and have responsibility for defining and executing a global supply chain strategy that delivers maximum value for the business and its customers.

This is a critical role, with a mix of tactical and strategic responsibilities, that offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the overall success of the business.

Come and join Sepura Ltd at an exciting time of growth and progress your career within this innovative technology company, based in Waterbeach, Cambridge.

Your Role:

As Head of Purchasing you will be responsible for managing all procurement activities within the organisation. You will play a critical role in optimising costs, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services, and building strong supplier relationships.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Procurement:

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement best practices.

• Vendor Management:

• Evaluate and select vendors based on quality, reliability, and pricing.
• Negotiate contracts and terms with suppliers.
• Monitor vendor performance and address any issues promptly.

• Cost Control:

• Analyse spending patterns and identify areas for cost reduction.
• Negotiate with suppliers to delivery cost savings.
• Implement cost-effective procurement processes.

• Supply Chain Optimisation:

• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless supply chain operations.
• Forecast demand and manage inventory levels in line with business objectives.

• Risk Management:

• Assess and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Stay informed about market trends and potential disruptions.

• Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead a team of procurement professionals.
• Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment.

• Data Analysis:

• Utilise data to make informed decisions.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Technology Adoption:

• Stay updated on procurement software and tools.
• Implement digital solutions for efficiency gains.

• Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities adhere to regulatory standards and organisational policies.

The successful candidate will:

• be results driven and cost focussed - have a proven track record for reducing costs.
• be able to lead by example and provide clear direction to their team.
• have experience working with global suppliers
• have a good attention to detail
• have the capacity to keep abreast of a large volume of information and prioritise issues within a complex organisation.
• have strong influencing / negotiation skills.
• be a team player and have the ability to work with stakeholders across various departments.
• be highly motivated.
• be prepared to travel internationally.

Your Day to Day:

Our customer base includes many different industries and markets around the world. Our complete TETRA and LTE solutions have been developed specifically for users in multiple sectors to face their critical communications challenges.
There is no such thing as a typical day here at Sepura. You will be supported by your manager and team, as well as collaborating with other departments across the business.

Activities you will be responsible for include:

• Supply chain strategy definition and deployment for new products
• Supplier identification, selection and approval in line with agreed strategy
• Negotiate / establish contractual agreements
• Achievement of cost reduction targets
• Stock ordering / lean inventory management / forecasting
• Ensuring materials are delivered in time to support customer demand
• Escalation path for purchasing / supplier issues
• Driving continuous improvement through our international supply base
• Identifying and assessing new sources where applicable to help drive the company's cost reduction and quality improvement targets
• Supporting new product introduction activity; ensuring that the relevant process controls are implemented to ensure the delivery of a quality product
• Manage and represent Sepura with major suppliers
• Supply chain development in consideration of the total cost of acquisition
• Commodity market / currency movement analysis
• Assessment and management of component obsolescence
• Maintaining an understanding of suppliers' financial health and mitigation of risk as appropriate

Some international travel will be required. This job involves some travelling so the successful applicant will have a full, clean driving licence and their own car. Travel expenses will be paid.

What you need to succeed:

Qualifications:

• MCIPS qualification
• A relevant degree

Experience and Skills:

• Extensive supply chain experience within the electronics / telecommunications or consumer goods Industries, including the management of complex global supplier / customer relationships.
• Team management experience.
• Strong IT skills - particularly in Microsoft excel and ideally have detailed Microsoft AX knowledge.
• Experience of offshore contract manufacturing management.
• Credibility to influence at senior level - with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Have the gravitas and confidence to represent the business externally at a senior level.
• Ability to act decisively under pressure