Procurement Manager
Got an eye for a deal and a knack for driving real value across complex operations? National Express Bus is looking for a Procurement Manager to lead end to end category strategies spanning direct fleet spend and essential corporate overheads.
In this role, you will be the driving force behind our commercial resilience. From negotiating competitive tenders and standardising contracts to working directly with operational teams and managing supplier performance, you will ensure we get maximum value while keeping commercial risk low.
This role is based at Miller Street, Aston with a flexible hybrid working arrangement.
What you will actually be doing
- Own Category Strategies: Develop and deliver procurement strategies across direct fleet needs and indirect areas like IT, Facilities Management, Marketing, Professional Services, and HR.
- Lead Tenders & Sourcing: Run competitive sourcing exercises, lead contract negotiations, and build strong supplier relationships that deliver true value for money.
- Protect the Business: Standardise NDAs, SLAs, and Master Service Agreements to keep us protected legally and commercially while aligning spend with ESG targets and UK regulations.
- Drive Supplier Performance: Track spend versus supplier performance across central functions and garages, holding regular KPI reviews to keep standards high.
- Monitor the Market: Keep your finger on the pulse of market conditions, benchmark pricing, track supply chain risks, and explore new supplier innovations.
What we need from you
- Procurement Expertise: A solid track record managing a hybrid mix of direct (fleet/engineering) and indirect spend categories.
- Negotiation Skills: Proven expertise leading competitive tenders, contract negotiations, market benchmarking, and supplier performance management.
- Influencing Ability: Strong interpersonal skills to build trust with operational teams and influence stakeholders across all levels of the business.
- Analytical Mindset: Excellent problem solving skills, great attention to detail, and a hands on approach to driving commercial savings.
The perks of joining us
We look after our team with perks that make a genuine difference:
- Free Travel: Free bus and coach travel right across the National Express network for you.
- Travel for a Plus One: Complimentary travel pass for your nominated person or partner.
- Peace of Mind: Solid company pension scheme and life assurance.
- Wellbeing Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and a private online GP service.
Things to Note...
At National Express, we are really proud of our health and safety record and as a result, we operate a Drugs and Alcohol Policy which is applicable to all employees.
As part of your initial assessment, we will complete Drug and Alcohol testing and you may be subject to random tests during your employment.