Head Of Procurement jobs in United Kingdom

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Job Description

Founded in 1984, AFL is an industry-recognized global leader in optical fiber network infrastructure. Our customer-first, high-speed fiber network solutions serve various markets – including energy, enterprise, and hyperscale – across 130+ countries. Products and services include single- and multi-mode optical fiber cable, test and inspection equipment, and our award-winning Data Center Interconnect solution, enabling centralized resource management for enhanced performance across multiple data center facilities.

Our recent European expansion brings end-to-end, sustainable optical fiber solutions closer to our valued EMEA customers, prioritizing customer satisfaction while lowering emissions in line with our Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy.

AFL is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, United States, with facilities in multiple global locations, including the UK, Canada, India, China, Mexico, and Australia. AFL is a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd.

Candidate

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract to provide maternity leave cover. Option for hybrid home/office working after 3 months.

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with at least 5 years of experience in logistics and supply chain coordination. The ideal candidate has proven expertise in expediting shipments to ensure timely delivery, minimize delays, and maintain seamless operations. Strong relationship-building skills with suppliers, carriers, and internal teams are essential to resolve issues and meet tight deadlines in fast-paced environments.

• Proficient in logistics software such as Oracle, TMS, Microsoft GP
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills for effective collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Strong analytical abilities to optimize delivery schedules, reduce lead times, and improve overall supply chain efficiency

Key Responsibilities

Expediting

• Confirm Purchase Orders and Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) with suppliers
• Update Microsoft Dynamics GP (ERP System) with Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) & ETA dates
• Identify, chase, resolve, and report late orders to stakeholders
• Ensure production times are within agreed timescales and accurately quoted to Customer Service
• Manage transfers through the supply chain, identify delays, mitigate issues, and notify relevant parties or adjust expected delivery dates

Customer Enquiries Management

• Respond to internal department enquiries regarding lead times and pricing within agreed timescales
• Determine the best supplier based on price, lead time, and shipping options; record confirmations appropriately

Order Shipment from Supplier to Customer

• Source products and create Purchase Orders using suppliers from the Approved Vendor List (AVL)
• Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods

GP Data Integrity for Supply Chain

• Maintain and update supply chain information within GP, including supplier details, prices, Incoterms, and delivery info

Communication

• Report monthly to the Supply Chain Manager on progress, activities, and issues
• Engage with departments such as Sales and Solutions & Engineering on relevant matters

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Candidates must reside within a commutable distance to Milton Keynes
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Expediting, Import/Export, Supply Chain, or Procurement
• Experience with Far East shipping and relevant regulations
• Knowledge of international shipping methods by air and sea
• Experience in scheduling shipments and coordinating with suppliers

Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Microsoft GP), TMS, or other logistics software.