Procurement Specialist - Strategic Operations

VRS-UK; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

VRS-UK is seeking a motivated Procurement Specialist to enhance their procurement function in Macclesfield. This role requires strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation, essential for strengthening supplier performance and driving commercial value.

The ideal candidate will hold a CIPS qualification with over 3 years of procurement experience. Responsibilities include leading negotiations and ensuring continuous improvement within supplier relations. This collaborative position is crucial for aligning procurement strategies with business objectives.

Qualifications

• 3+ years' procurement experience in relevant sectors.
• Proven success in negotiations and cost optimisation.
• Strong background in RFPs and contract management.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection.
• Negotiate complex service contracts.
• Drive supplier performance and resolve issues.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Supplier relationship management

Analytical skills

Stakeholder engagement

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

CIPS qualification

Job description

Our client is a global organisation operating within scientific services and laboratory solutions, delivering critical support to regulated industries including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and research.

We're seeking a motivated Procurement Specialist to join a dynamic, high-performing team, driving supplier strategy and commercial performance.

This is a key position within the procurement function, focused on strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation across a complex service portfolio. The role has been created to strengthen supplier performance, drive commercial value, and support long-term service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection aligned to long‑term goals
• Own end‑to‑end negotiation of complex service contracts
• Design and deliver RFPs, contracting strategies, and long‑term agreements
• Drive supplier performance through SRM, KPIs, and regular reviews
• Resolve supplier issues and lead continuous improvement initiatives
• Use data and market insights to inform decisions and identify opportunities
• Collaborate with global teams to align procurement with business objectives

Qualifications

• CIPS qualified with 3+ years' procurement experience ideally across services, manufacturing, scientific, or aviation sectors
• Proven success in negotiations and cost optimisation
• Strong background in RFPs and contract management/negotiation
• Skilled in supplier relationship management and stakeholder engagement
• Analytical, data‑driven, and commercially focused
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

This is a highly collaborative role with strong visibility across the business, combining commercial thinking with operational impact.