Procurement Manager

Just Recruitment Group; Sudbury; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing manufacturing business in Sudbury is seeking a Procurement Manager to lead its procurement function. This hands-on role requires a strategic thinker with deep procurement expertise who can develop and implement procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, and oversee the procurement team. The successful candidate will collaborate across departments to align procurement with business goals, ensuring operational effectiveness and cost efficiency. A valid driver's license is essential due to the business's location.

Qualifications

• Deep procurement expertise is required.
• Proven experience in managing supplier relationships is essential.
• Ability to lead and develop a team is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a procurement strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Manage tendering processes, contract negotiation and supplier onboarding activities.
• Oversee raw material planning and stock control.
• Monitor procurement KPIs and supplier performance metrics.

Skills

Leadership in procurement

Strategic thinking

Supplier relationship management

Cost reduction expertise

Inventory control

Team development

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Procurement Manager

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business, based on the outskirts of Sudbury - they are looking to add a 'Procurement Manager' to their growing team.

The key purpose of this role is to lead the delivery of greater strategic and operational value of the procurement function and help to deliver business‑critical goals. This is a hands‑on, strategic and operational role that requires a confident leader with deep procurement expertise and the ability to inspire and develop a team.

You will work closely with the Supply Chain Manager to shape and implement a fit‑for‑purpose procurement strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals across quality, cost, sustainability and risk management. This role is pivotal in maintaining robust and value‑driven supplier relationships while enabling continuous improvement in all procurement activities.

You will also oversee raw material planning and call‑offs, ensuring that the business maintains the right balance between availability and inventory control – essential for production continuity and working capital efficiency.

This role includes direct line management of a Procurement Specialist, supporting their development and day‑to‑day activity management.

Key Duties

• Develop and implement a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with business objectives, operational needs and sustainability goals.
• Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers across raw materials, packaging, and indirect categories to ensure quality, continuity and cost‑effectiveness.
• Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager and other departments to align procurement with broader supply chain goals and business plans.
• Contribute to the company's sustainability, traceability and ethical sourcing commitments through strategic supplier partnerships.
• Oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging, indirect goods and services, and CAPEX items, ensuring optimal quality, cost and delivery performance.
• Manage tendering processes, contract negotiation and supplier onboarding activities.
• Ensure ERP system is updated and used effectively for procurement activities and reporting.
• Monitor and report on procurement KPIs, savings and supplier performance metrics.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
• Lead supplier performance reviews, audits and corrective action processes.
• Identify and assess risks within the supply base and implement mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Lead, mentor and develop the procurement team to achieve high levels of engagement, performance and professional growth.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning within the team.
• Support the wider Supply Chain team by contributing to cross‑functional initiatives and projects.
• Ensure adherence to company procurement policies, financial controls and ethical standards.
• Support internal and external audits with relevant documentation and compliance reporting.
• Drive process improvement initiatives and embed best practices across the procurement function.

Relationship Management

Build and nurture key working relationships with Production, Quality Assurance, Finance, Warehousing, Sales and Commercial Teams, Suppliers, Logistics Providers and Regulatory Bodies.

This is an excellent opportunity to drive change within a business – offering a great working environment.

Working hours for this role are Monday to Friday 8 am – 5 pm, although some flexibility is required.

Due to the location of the business, you must have access to your own transport.