About the RoleMy 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.