Lead Procurement Officer

The Lead Procurement Officer is responsible for prioritising procurement activities across the organisation and managing the day-to-day activities of the Buyers/Procurement Officers , ensuring the delivery of best value, compliance with procurement regulations and policies. The role supports strategic sourcing initiatives, and ensures that procurement activities contribute to organisational objectives, cost efficiency, and risk management.

Procurement Leadership

• Lead and manage procurement projects and tender exercises from initiation through to contract award.
• Provide procurement advice and guidance to managers and stakeholders across the organisation.
• Support the development and implementation of procurement strategies that align with organisational goals.
• Organise training and mentorship for junior procurement team members.

Strategic Sourcing and Contract Management

• Develop sourcing strategies that maximise value for money while maintaining quality and service standards.
• Conduct market research and supplier analysis to identify opportunities for innovation, savings, and service improvements.
• Monitor supplier performance and implement improvement plans where required.

Compliance and Governance

• Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant legislation, regulations, internal policies, and governance requirements.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation for audit purposes.
• Support the development and review of procurement policies, procedures, and templates.
• Promote ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible procurement practices.

Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and procurement requirements.
• Work collaboratively with Finance, Legal, Operations, and other departments to support procurement initiatives.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement throughout procurement and contract management processes.

Performance and Continuous Improvement

• Identify and deliver opportunities for cost savings, value creation, and process efficiencies.
• Prepare procurement reports, performance metrics, and management information for senior leadership.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and procurement transformation programmes.

• Experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or commercial contract management.
• Experience leading  procurement projects and competitive tender processes.
• Understanding of public sector and/or private sector procurement regulations and best practices.
• Experience negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
• Proven ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.

• Skills and Competencies

• Excellent negotiation and commercial awareness.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective project management and organisational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results to tight deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and governance compliance.

Ability to guide, mentor and develop a team.  A strong awareness of employment legislation and best practice regarding, but not limited to: processes, wellbeing, and equal opportunities.

Demonstrable experience in procurement, logistics or supply chain management. Has attained or is working towards CIPS qualifications in procurement and supply.

• Competitive base pay
• Company pension
• 31 days holiday
• Life assurance

***Please note as part of the onboarding process all candidates will need to complete BPSS security clearance***

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.