Head of Procurement - Rail & Aviation

Morrison Water Services; Southampton; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 100,000

Job description

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We are looking to offer a Head of Procurement the opportunity to join our expanding Procurement team covering the South of England.

About the team

The Procurement function reports to the Chief Financial Officer and supports the M Group Business by working collaboratively as one procurement group to accelerate sustainable benefits delivery, providing solutions that meet the needs of our businesses and clients, enhanced by technology and scalable for future growth.

About the role

As the Head of Procurement for Rail and Aviation you will oversee and manage all procurement activities for the rail and aviation division, ensuring that sourcing strategies align with the organization's goals for efficiency, sustainability, safety and cost-effectiveness to meet our client expectations.

You will lead a team responsible for acquiring goods and services essential to the operation, working closely with the Commercial function and Operational teams to deliver sustainable value from the supply chain whilst maintaining excellent delivery for our clients.

You will also be a strategic leader, adept at stakeholder management, supplier engagement, contract negotiations, and process optimization, with a pivotal role in ensuring the division meets its operational goals while driving innovation, sustainability, and cost savings.

This role will be based remotely but the ideal candidate will be based in the South of England, due to travelling needing to be around this area.

As the Head of Procurement you'll get the opportunity to:

• Develop and implement comprehensive procurement strategies for the rail and aviation division that ensure value for money, quality, and sustainability.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives by identifying and capitalizing on opportunities for cost savings, without compromising on quality or safety.
• Lead high-value contract negotiations with suppliers, ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and company standards. Ensure use of group preferred supplier contracts for all suppliers and sub-contractors where applicable.
• Manage, mentor, and develop the procurement team, promoting best practices in procurement processes, supplier management, and negotiation. Foster a positive and collaborative culture in the team, focusing on continuous improvement, innovation and performance.
• Work closely with the commercial and operational teams in the division and other key stakeholders to align procurement activities with the company's overall business goals. Particularly important is engagement with Group Procurement to work collaboratively and take advantage of the buying power of the Group.
• Manage and develop good relationships with senior management within the Rail and Aviation division. Presentation and communication of procurement strategies to business partners establishing acceptance and adherence to procurement process and Group contracts.
• Identify and mitigate risks in the supply chain, including disruptions, cost fluctuations, and regulatory changes specific to the rail and aviation sectors.
• Lead the procurement team through transformational change, ensuring a smooth transition and buy-in from key stakeholders, and develop and execute change management plans to support the adoption of new processes, technologies and practices to deliver a strategic and value add procurement function.

What you'll bring?

• CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply) or similar procurement certification.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, with at least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably within industry.
• Strong knowledge of procurement principles, sourcing strategies, and contract management.
• Experience managing complex supply chains, preferably in transportation, engineering, or infrastructure environments.
• Proven track record of achieving cost savings and negotiating high-value contracts.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to analyse data and make strategic procurement decisions.
• Familiarity with procurement technologies (e.g., ERP, Oracle, or other procurement software).
• Knowledge of industry regulations and standards related to rail and aviation procurement is preferred.
• Experience with sustainability and green procurement initiatives.

What's in it for you?

• 25 days' annual leave plus statutory holidays
• Discretionary annual bonus
• Contributory Pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to a wide range of discounts and special offers through our online rewards platform
• Private health care
• Company car/car allowance and fuel card

At M Group Services we recognise and value the benefits from our workforce diversity. We work hard to build and maintain inclusive environments and develop a culture where our people feel included and valued.