Procurement Manager

The Procurement Manager is responsible for developing sourcing strategies, delivering commercial value, managing supplier relationships, and supporting business objectives across WHSmith North America. This role partners with Operations, Finance, Legal, IT, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Store Operations to manage cost, quality, service, and risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category and sourcing strategies aligned with business goals.
• Lead sourcing activities including supplier selection, RFPs, negotiations, contracting, and onboarding.
• Identify cost savings, process improvements, and operational efficiencies.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and act as a trusted procurement advisor.
• Manage supplier performance, conduct business reviews, and resolve service issues.
• Negotiate favorable commercial agreements and oversee contract compliance and renewals.
• Identify and mitigate supplier, supply chain, and commercial risks.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Tracks spend, savings, and supplier performance through reporting and analytics.
• Support procurement best practices, governance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Skills & Experience

• Experience in Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Category Management.
• Background in Retail, Hospitality, Consumer Goods, or similar fast-paced environments preferred.
• Proven success delivering cost savings, supplier improvements, and commercial results.
• Strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and analytical skills.
• Experience with RFI, RFQ, and RFP processes.
• Knowledge of contract management, supplier governance, and procurement systems.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• CIPS, CPSM, CPSD, or similar certification is a plus.

Travel Requirements

• Occasional travel within North America for supplier and stakeholder engagement.