Head of Commercial & Procurement Location: Manchester (Hybrid Working Available)
About the Role: We are seeking a dynamic and driven Head of Commercial & Procurement to lead and manage the commercial & procurement function within a prominent housing association.
The role holder will work closely with a consultancy team to deliver a high-impact procurement strategy.
As a senior leader, you will work strategically, ensuring the delivery of excellent procurement outcomes that drive value for money and contribute to the achievement of the organisation's long-term objectives.
Key Responsibilities: Lead the development and implementation of a commercial procurement framework, aligned with the organisation's strategy and priorities.
Ensure compliance with procurement regulations, including relevant public sector procurement laws.
Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships to enhance efficiencies and drive continuous improvements across the contract lifecycle.
Manage and develop a high-performing procurement team, ensuring professional delivery and customer-focused service.
Oversee the procurement pipeline and risk management strategies, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
Drive collaborative external relationships with public sector and procurement organisations to identify efficiencies and best practices.
Support the finance team with budget setting, monitoring, and procurement activity planning.
Lead negotiations with suppliers and identify opportunities for innovation, social value, and sustainability within the supply chain.
Who We're Looking For: You'll be a commercially-minded procurement professional with substantial leadership experience, ideally within the housing sector, who can elevate the role of procurement and drive real change.
You should have strong strategic thinking, a customer-focused approach, and a proven track record of leading high-value, high-risk procurement projects.
Your ability to manage and motivate teams, build collaborative relationships, and drive performance will be key to your success in this role.
Key Skills & Experience: CIPS Level 6 qualified or degree-level education (or equivalent experience in a relevant field).
In-depth knowledge of procurement legislation and best practices, particularly in the public sector.
Demonstrable experience in leading and managing procurement services in complex environments.
Proven success in delivering cost-saving initiatives, negotiating effectively, and managing supplier relationships.
Ability to work cross-functionally and translate strategic goals into operational delivery.
Strong leadership and team management experience, including motivating staff and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
Excellent influencing, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Why Join Us?
This is an exciting opportunity to shape the procurement function within a forward-thinking housing association and make a tangible impact in a community-focused organisation.
Join us to drive change, foster innovation, and create real value.