Head of Procurement

Head of ProcurementSurrey basedWe’re supporting a food business in the appointment of a Head of Procurement to lead its purchasing and supply planning function.You’ll shape sourcing strategy, strengthen supplier partnerships and develop the team, ensuring procurement supports customer service, profitability and future growth. This is a broad leadership role combining commercial negotiation with responsibility for supply resilience and stock investment.Key responsibilitiesDevelop a procurement strategy that supports commercial priorities and provides a reliable, competitive supply base.Lead and develop the purchasing and planning team, establishing clear objectives and building capability.Oversee supplier selection, negotiations and agreements, securing value across pricing, terms, quality and service.Build relationships with key suppliers, address escalated issues and drive performance improvements.Reduce supply exposure through contingency planning, alternative sourcing and early identification of emerging risks.Guide inventory decisions to protect availability while controlling working capital and surplus stock.Support commercial opportunities with insight into supplier costs, market conditions and delivery capabilities.Work with technical colleagues to uphold product standards and responsible sourcing expectations.Improve procurement processes, systems and reporting to support clear, timely decisions.What we’re looking forSignificant procurement or sourcing experience within food, FMCG or another international product business.Proven success leading purchasing or supply planning teams and developing people.Strong negotiation skills and experience managing strategic suppliers and commercial agreements.A track record of delivering measurable improvements in cost, service or supply reliability.A good understanding of inventory, international sourcing and the risks associated with extended lead times.Strong financial and analytical judgement, with confidence interpreting commercial and operational data.Credibility with senior stakeholders and the ability to bring teams together around practical solutions.Familiarity with supplier compliance, ethical sourcing and sustainability requirements.