Job Description

Procurement & Planning Manager

Location:

Thatcham, Berkshire (occasional travel required)

Salary:

Competitive, with performance-related bonus

About Us

Externiture is a leading UK designer, manufacturer, and installer of public transport infrastructure. We provide bus and cycle shelters, bus stop infrastructure, refurbishment and maintenance services, and civil engineering works across the UK. We also develop industry-leading software solutions that streamline infrastructure planning and data management.

We are proud of our rapid growth, expanding by 200% in the last 3 years, and our culture of continuous improvement. As a LEAN business, we follow the principles of Paul Akers' Two-Second Lean to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and create value across every area of our operations.

The Role

We are looking for a

Procurement & Planning Manager

to lead our procurement and supply chain function. This is a key role that ensures we source the right materials and services at the best value, while maintaining high quality and timely delivery.

You will manage procurement strategy, supplier negotiations, contracts, and inventory control, as well as oversee production scheduling to align with business demands. A strong commercial mindset, excellent supplier relationship skills, and the ability to drive operational efficiency are essential.

You will also play a vital role in embedding LEAN principles into procurement and scheduling processes, championing continuous improvement across the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships Negotiate contracts and oversee the full procurement cycle Manage and optimise the MRP system for accurate demand planning Monitor supplier KPIs (cost, quality, delivery) and drive improvements Own and maintain the Master Production Schedule Lead weekly planning meetings to coordinate with Production, Delivery, and Sales Admin teams Implement LEAN scheduling practices to reduce waste and optimise resources Manage and develop direct reports within the procurement team
What We're Looking For

Essential:

CIPS Level 5 (or equivalent procurement qualification) Proven procurement management experience with strong negotiation skills Experience in production scheduling and resource planning Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems Excellent communication, analytical, and organisational skills

Desirable:

Experience in manufacturing or infrastructure industries Previous experience applying LEAN principles within supply chain or procurement
Benefits

Company pension scheme Life assurance scheme Medical expenses scheme Health & wellbeing support package Performance-related bonus scheme Generous holiday allowance Ongoing training and professional development, including CIPS and leadership training
Working Hours

40 hours per week, Monday-Friday (between 6am and 6pm). Additional hours may occasionally be required.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please submit your

CV and a covering letter

explaining your suitability for the position.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site parking Private dental insurance Private medical insurance
Ability to commute/relocate:

Thatcham RG19 4ZD: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):

Do you have a CIPS Level 5 qualification or equivalent procurement qualification?
Education:

A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:

Procurement: 2 years (preferred) Lean: 1 year (preferred) Production planning: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person