Strategic Procurement Leader | Global Tendering

EU Satellite Centre (SatCen); Manchester; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

Visa sponsorship/assistance

Flexible working hours

Inclusive environment

Job summary

SKA Observatory in Cheshire, UK is seeking a Procurement Manager to lead the UK procurement team and shape strategy in alignment with policy and global contracts. The role oversees end-to-end procurement across IT, construction and services, driving efficiency and best practice.

You will manage a small team, collaborate with international partners, and champion sustainable procurement while delivering high-value contracts and compliant processes across time zones.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership with direct line-management experience.
• MCIPS accreditation or working towards.
• Bachelor’s degree in business/Procurement or related field.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication.
• Experience leading tenders and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the SKAO Procurement Team in the UK, with responsibility for overall team performance and development.
• Develop and maintain procurement policies, embedding sustainability across the lifecycle.
• Build collaborative relationships with senior stakeholders and partner research bodies.
• Provide expert guidance to ensure compliant procurement outcomes and value-for-money.
• Lead end-to-end procurement activities for varied contracts and tender processes.
• Lead contract negotiations and support project managers post‑award.
• Represent procurement at senior international meetings and present KPI reports.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Contract negotiations

Procurement strategy

Team coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Management / Procurement

MCIPS Accreditation or working towards

Tools

Unit4 ERP

Confluence

JIRA

Microsoft Office

Job description

SKA Observatory in Cheshire, UK is seeking a Procurement Manager to lead the UK procurement team and shape strategy in alignment with policy and global contracts. The role oversees end-to-end procurement across IT, construction and services, driving efficiency and best practice.

You will manage a small team, collaborate with international partners, and champion sustainable procurement while delivering high-value contracts and compliant processes across time zones.