About the Role
My client is a leading private sector rail operator, known for delivering a high-quality, efficient, and customer-centric service. As they continue to invest in their technology infrastructure and commercial capability, they are looking to hire an experienced Procurement Manager with a specialist focus on IT and digital procurement.

This is a critical role in their evolving procurement team, reporting into the Head of Procurement and offering the opportunity to lead strategic sourcing activity in a regulated yet commercially dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and deliver end-to-end IT procurement activity in line with Procurement Act 2023 (formerly UCR 2016). UCR/PA23 very useful.
Develop IT category strategies aligned to technology and digital transformation priorities.
Ensure full compliance with procurement policy, governance and external legislation.
Draft and manage tender documentation, commercial models, evaluation criteria, and contract terms.
Partner with stakeholders across IT, legal, finance, and operations to define procurement needs and shape sourcing strategies.
Manage commercial negotiations and ensure robust, value-driven supplier contracts.
Benchmark supply markets, drive innovation, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Monitor supplier performance and manage risk through structured SRM and KPI frameworks.
Optimise use of procurement systems including e-sourcing and P2P platforms.
Collaborate with Group Procurement functions on joint initiatives and best practice sharing.

Key Skills & Experience

Significant experience managing complex, high-value IT procurement projects within a regulated or infrastructure-led environment.
Strong working knowledge of UCR 2016 and/or Procurement Act 2023 (PA23) with demonstrable experience leading compliant tenders.
Skilled in drafting commercial documents and negotiating supplier contracts.
In-depth understanding of technology categories such as cloud, SaaS, infrastructure, and professional services.
Background in rail, transport or utilities sectors is advantageous.
Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
Data-led approach with strong Excel and spend analysis capabilities.
Experience using P2P or procurement systems.
Ideally CIPS-qualified or actively working toward accreditation.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

Join a commercially focused procurement team playing a key role in IT and digital transformation within UK rail.
Shape the strategic sourcing approach across business-critical technology categories.
Enjoy a collaborative culture with hybrid working, development opportunities, and a high-impact remit