The CompanyLead procurement for a fast-paced manufacturing business at a pivotal point in its growth.We are supporting a successful, manufacturing organisation to appoint a Procurement Manager into a newly defined role. This is a hands-on opportunity to take ownership of procurement across a lean, high-performing operation, with genuine influence at senior level.The business operates in a fast-paced environment and is actively working to diversify its customer and sector exposure. Procurement plays a critical role in supporting that strategy.The client offers a hybrid-working model - c3 days per week on site/2 days working remotely.The OpportunityThe Procurement Manager will lead and develop the Procurement Function, covering both direct and indirect spend. This is a broad role balancing strategy, supplier management and operational delivery.You will:

• Lead all procurement activity across the business
• Balance strategic supplier development with hands-on purchasing when required
• Manage a small, experienced team (materials and purchasing)
• Own supplier relationships, performance and change management
• Support business planning through cost analysis, reporting and supplier insight
• Coordinate RFQs, supplier selection and nomination activities
• Manage compliance, risk and governance across the supply base
• Drive cost, efficiency and process improvement initiatives
• Act as the central procurement interface with production, engineering, maintenance, quality and finance

This is a visible, influential, and operationally critical Procurement role.About YouThe successful Procurement Manager will be a resilient, pragmatic procurement professional who is comfortable operating in a busy SME environment.You are likely to bring:

• Experience in automotive or fast-paced manufacturing 
• Exposure to both direct materials and indirect spend (including MRO)
• Strong supplier management and negotiation capability
• Confidence managing competing priorities and engaging/influencing cross-functional stakeholders
• A hands-on mindset alongside strategic awareness
• The ability to lead, influence and develop others in a lean team

Prior team management experience is desirable but not essential – this role would suit someone stepping up into a broader procurement leadership position.