Job Description

As part of a recent restructure, our Supply Chain function is evolving to deliver greater strategic and operational value. We are seeking a driven and experienced Procurement Manager to help lead this transformation -- playing a vital role in shaping our procurement function and supporting the delivery of business-critical goals.

The Procurement Manager will play a central role in the transformation and growth of GCB Cocoa UK's procurement function. This is a hands-on, strategic and operational role that requires a confident leader with deep procurement expertise and the ability to inspire and develop a team.

You will work closely with the Supply Chain Manager to shape and implement a fit-for-purpose procurement strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals across quality, cost, sustainability and risk management. This role is pivotal in ensuring GCB UK maintains robust and value-driven supplier relationships while enabling continuous improvement in all procurement activities.

You will also oversee raw material planning and call-offs, ensuring that the business maintains the right balance between availability and inventory control -- essential for production continuity and working capital efficiency.

This role includes direct line management of a Procurement Specialist, supporting their development and day-to-day activity management.

Required skills and qualifications

CIPS qualified (minimum Level 5). Substantial experience in a procurement leadership role within the food, ingredients, manufacturing or FMCG sectors. Demonstrated success in developing and executing procurement strategies. Experience in leading and developing high-performing teams. Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Competencies / Behaviours for success

Commercially astute with excellent analytical and financial skills. Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills at all levels. Strategic thinker with the ability to influence stakeholders and drive change. Proficient in procurement systems, ERP software and Excel. Self-motivated, hands-on and results-oriented with a proactive mindset.

Key Responsibilities / Core Activities

Develop and implement a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with business objectives, operational needs and sustainability goals. Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers across raw materials, packaging, and indirect categories to ensure quality, continuity and cost-effectiveness. Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager and other departments to align procurement with broader supply chain goals and business plans. Contribute to the company's sustainability, traceability and ethical sourcing commitments through strategic supplier partnerships. Oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging, indirect goods and services, and CAPEX items, ensuring optimal quality, cost and delivery performance. Manage tendering processes, contract negotiation and supplier onboarding activities. Ensure our ERP system is updated and used effectively for procurement activities and reporting. Monitor and report on procurement KPIs, savings and supplier performance metrics. Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers, driving continuous improvement and innovation. Lead supplier performance reviews, audits and corrective action processes. Identify and assess risks within the supply base and implement mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity. Lead, mentor and develop the procurement team to achieve high levels of engagement, performance and professional growth. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning within the team. Support the wider Supply Chain team by contributing to cross-functional initiatives and projects. Ensure adherence to company procurement policies, financial controls and ethical standards. Support internal and external audits with relevant documentation and compliance reporting. Drive process improvement initiatives and embed best practices across the procurement function.

Key Working Relationships

Internal: Production, Quality Assurance, Finance, Warehousing, Sales and Commercial Teams. External: Suppliers, Logistics Providers and Regulatory Bodies.

Working Pattern:

08.00 - 17.00, Monday - Friday (1 hour lunch break)

We offer:

Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme: 5% Employee pension contributions are matched by 5% Employer pension contribution. 23 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 25 days after 2 years' service. Free on-site parking and hot drinks
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 40,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

Performance bonus
Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:

Sudbury CO10 7QR: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person