Interim procurement lead
1 day ago
Colchester
My client, a leading logistics and transport group, is seeking to appoint an experienced Interim Procurement Transformation Lead to guide the Procurement function through a significant period of change. This is an 18-month interim assignment centred on reshaping Procurement, strengthening governance frameworks, and embedding improved systems and ways of working. The role requires immediate or short-notice availability and blends hands-on delivery with strategic oversight, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement. Purpose of the Role • Support the Procurement team through organisational and operational transformation., • Redefine the function’s structure, responsibilities, and operating model., • Introduce effective governance while maintaining agility and practicality., • Position Procurement as a proactive, value-adding partner to the wider business. Accountabilities Supplier Onboarding & Compliance Governance • Take ownership of structured onboarding and compliance processes for all third-party suppliers., • Oversee the integrity and control of supplier master data across multiple systems., • Establish a streamlined internal purchasing environment enabling operational teams to raise POs via approved suppliers with pre-agreed commercials and rates., • Lead regular supplier performance reviews and compliance audits. Sourcing & Process Transformation • Develop and implement a forward-looking sourcing approach aligned to operational requirements., • Create and formalise fit-for-purpose procurement policies and procedures., • Design and document processes aligned with the objectives of the S2P Transformation programme., • Support the successful rollout of broader Source-to-Pay improvements. Team Leadership & Functional Development • Provide strong line management and practical change leadership to the Procurement team., • Redefine role profiles and annual objectives in line with the updated functional remit., • Support team development through coaching and capability enhancement., • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and commercial discipline. Business Partnering & Stakeholder Engagement • Partner closely with operational divisions, particularly those managing infrastructure, transport, and utilities suppliers., • Implement governance measures that strengthen oversight without creating unnecessary complexity., • Address supplier and operational challenges directly, constructively, and professionally., • Engage and influence stakeholders across multiple levels within a fast-paced environment. Transformation Priorities • Reset and reposition the Procurement function for long-term effectiveness., • Strengthen oversight of infrastructure, transport, and utilities-related supply chains., • Enhance governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks., • Improve ERP utilisation and master data controls., • Deliver sustainable, pragmatic change aligned to operational realities. Key Skills & Experience Essential: • CIPS qualified or nearing completion., • Over 15 years’ experience within Procurement, including senior-level exposure., • Experience contributing to or leading ERP implementations, with strong master data expertise., • Background within infrastructure, transport, utilities, or similarly operational sectors., • Sound understanding of Health & Safety and risk management requirements., • Proven track record delivering procurement transformation or operating model redesign., • Demonstrable experience in line management and hands-on change delivery., • Calm, credible, and emotionally intelligent leadership style., • Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing capability., • Comfortable operating within interim structures and IR35 considerations. Personal Attributes • Composed and confident in complex or pressured environments., • Pragmatic, solutions-focused, and commercially aware., • Emotionally intelligent with a collaborative leadership style.