Strategic Procurement Manager

Title : Strategic Procurement ManagerLocation : Hove, UK (Hybrid)Contract : 3 monthsWorking pattern : Full time (9am to 5pm - Monday to Friday)Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and deliver strategic procurement and category plans across designated spend areas, ensuring procurement activity aligns with organisational priorities and delivers measurable value.Lead complex end-to-end procurement exercises, tendering activities, and commercial projects, ensuring effective project governance, resource planning, risk management, and successful delivery.Identify emerging procurement trends, market developments, risks, and opportunities, providing strategic recommendations to support informed decision-making.Develop procurement policies, strategies, and best practice guidance, contributing to continuous improvement and organisational objectives.Evaluate existing procurement and service delivery models, recommending innovative solutions to improve quality, efficiency, and long-term value.Provide expert commercial advice to senior stakeholders on procurement strategies, route-to-market options, contract management, and supplier engagement.Ensure all procurement activities comply with Public Procurement Regulations (PCR 2015 and Procurement Act 2023), Council policies, and legislative requirements, including Social Value, Environmental Sustainability, and Modern Slavery obligations.Support the development and implementation of operational procurement plans while contributing to longer-term strategic planning.Lead major procurement projects, service reviews, and cross-functional initiatives, representing the procurement function both internally and externally.Manage procurement budgets and allocated resources effectively, ensuring financial accountability and delivery within agreed targets.Collaborate with managers, service leads, and external partners to identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and enhanced commercial outcomes.Lead, coach, and develop procurement professionals, fostering a high-performing team focused on delivering strategic objectives and continuous improvement.Represent the organisation at local, regional, and industry procurement forums, building strong professional networks and promoting procurement excellence.Essential Skills & ExperienceDegree qualified or equivalent professional qualification, ideally CIPS Level 5 (or working towards), or equivalent procurement experience.Significant experience in strategic procurement, category management, and commercial leadership within the public or private sector.Strong knowledge of Public Procurement Regulations (PCR 2015) , the Procurement Act 2023 (PA23) , and public sector procurement best practice.Proven experience leading complex procurement projects, strategic sourcing initiatives, and high-value tendering exercises.Strong understanding of category management methodologies and their practical application.Commercially astute with experience in contract negotiation, cost analysis, supplier management, and delivering value-for-money outcomes.Knowledge of change management, project management, and continuous improvement methodologies.Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior leaders, elected members, and external partners.Experience developing procurement strategies, policies, and governance frameworks.Strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a complex environment.Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.TPBN1_UKTJ