ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PROCUREMENT EU & UK

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PROCUREMENT EU & UK

UK - Based

JOB SCOPE

Responsible for coordinating and delivering end‑to‑end procurement activities across the UK & Europe region under Group Procurement operating framework, supporting both existing and new airport lounge operations. The role acts as a key regional interface, working closely with the Global Director, Strategic Procurement to execute global category strategies, drive regional synergies, and support cost efficiency initiatives in line with Group priorities.

The position leads regional sourcing and contract execution in collaboration with global category owners, regional finance, and country teams, ensuring quality, total cost of ownership, and delivery timelines are met, while supporting the consistent adoption of standardised procurement processes and governance across the region.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Procurement & Business Partnership

• Act as a regional procurement partner to UK & Europe stakeholders, supporting the execution of Group and HQ‑led sourcing strategies in line with business objectives
• Partner with the Global Director, Strategic Procurement to deploy global initiatives regionally, enabling synergies, cost efficiency, and consistent application of global procurement strategy
• Support business units in translating operational requirements into compliant procurement solutions within Group frameworks

Sourcing, Contracts & Supplier Management

• Lead the regional execution of sourcing and contract activities in accordance with HQ‑defined category strategies, standards, and governance
• Coordinate end‑to‑end sourcing activities, including supplier evaluation, negotiation support, and contract execution, working within approved frameworks and delegated authorities
• Manage regional supplier relationships to support performance, value delivery, and adherence to Group expectations
• Ensure consistent application of procurement processes, templates, and governance across all regional entities

Cost Optimization & Analysis

• Conduct regional cost and market analysis to support HQ‑led total cost of ownership and value initiatives
• Identify and implement approved cost efficiency actions in collaboration with procurement, finance, and business teams
• Support budgeting and planning processes by providing regional inputs aligned to Group assumptions and direction

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement

• Support the adoption of Group procurement tools, systems, and best practices across the region
• Coordinate e‑procurement catalogue development and updates in alignment with global standards
• Act as a regional conduit for process improvements, supporting harmonization and standardization initiatives led by HQ

Performance & Reporting

• Track and monitor regional procurement performance, supplier KPIs, and savings delivery in line with Group reporting methodology
• Provide structured regional inputs to HQ and regional stakeholders, highlighting risks, progress, and improvement actions
• Support corrective actions and follow‑up activities as directed through governance forums

Leadership & Capability Building

• Enable cross‑functional and cross‑country collaboration through guidance, coordination, and knowledge sharing
• Support capability building initiatives for the procurement talent pool in the region
• Reinforce a strong culture of ethics, compliance, and governance in accordance with Group policies and standards

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 9+ years of experience in sourcing & procurement, with a strong background in hospitality, F&B, airport services, or related industries
• Proven experience managing regional procurement across UK & Europe within a multinational environment
• Strong expertise in strategic sourcing, contract management, supplier negotiations, and category management
• Demonstrated experience in cost optimization, financial analysis, budgeting, and total cost of ownership models
• Ability to act as a strategic business partner, influencing senior stakeholders and aligning procurement strategies with business objectives
• Experience working closely with finance teams (FP&A exposure preferred) on budgeting and long-term planning
• Strong knowledge of procurement systems and ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, ARIBA, Coupa, CheckSCM or equivalent)
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel (financial modeling) and PowerPoint
• Professional certification such as CIPS, CPM, EIPM or equivalent is preferred
• Degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain or related field
• Fluent in English; additional European languages are a plus
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural, multi-country environment
• Willingness to travel across the UK & Europe as required