Procurement Specialist (12-month FTC)

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Procurement Specialist with a strong background in strategic procurement gained within a manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a commercially minded procurement professional who enjoys driving supplier performance, improving inventory efficiency, and delivering measurable operational improvements within a fast-paced business.

The successful candidate will take ownership of the supplier base across our consumables and instruments portfolio, ensuring cost competitiveness, supply continuity, quality performance, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage strategic supplier relationships across consumables and instrument categories
• Lead commercial negotiations to achieve best value, cost reduction, and favourable payment terms
• Drive supplier performance improvements relating to delivery, quality, responsiveness, and service levels
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Planning, Quality, Engineering, and Sales teams to support business objectives
• Monitor market trends, supplier risks, and material availability to ensure continuity of supply

Key Performance Metrics (KPIs)

• Supplier On-Time Delivery (OTR)
• Customer On-Time Delivery (OTR)
• Supplier & Product Quality Performance
• Cost Savings & Margin Improvement
• Supplier Lead Time Reduction

Candidate Profile

Essential Experience

• Proven procurement experience within a manufacturing environment
• Strong background in strategic sourcing and supplier management
• Experience negotiating pricing, contracts, and commercial agreements
• Track record of improving supplier performance and inventory management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability
• Experience working cross-functionally within operations and supply chain teams
• Good understanding of MRP/ERP systems and procurement processes

Personal Attributes

• Commercially astute and results driven
• Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills
• Hands-on and proactive approach
• Able to balance strategic thinking with day-to-day operational management
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

Preferred Background

• Experience within instruments, technical products, engineering, life sciences, or industrial manufacturing environments would be advantageous
• CIPS qualification or equivalent desirable but not essential