About NextStep

NextStep connects top consulting talent with high-potential opportunities through smart, AI-powered matching. We partner with ambitious companies across sectors to place experienced professionals in roles where they can have a real impact. On behalf of a client in our partner network, we are currently looking for a Director of Procurement to join their team.

About the Company

Our client is a FTSE 250 specialist retailer with £1.8bn in annual revenue, 600 stores, and a growing e-commerce business. The Procurement function manages over £500m of third-party spend across direct product sourcing, logistics, technology, facilities, and marketing services. Following a strategic review, the CPO is transforming Procurement from a cost-focused buying function into a strategic capability that also drives supplier innovation, ESG compliance, and supply chain resilience.

The Role

As Director of Procurement, you will lead a team of 25 across direct and indirect categories, own the procurement operating model, and drive the transformation programme that elevates the function's strategic impact. You will be a key ExCo partner, reporting to the CPO and working closely with the CFO, COO, and divisional commercial leads.

What You'll Do

• Lead the Procurement function of 25 (setting category strategy, directing sourcing activity, and developing team capability across direct and indirect spend).
• Own the procurement transformation programme, implementing a new TOM, deploying a best-in-class procurement technology stack, and building strategic sourcing capability.
• Represent Procurement at ExCo level, providing regular updates on savings delivery, risk exposure, and strategic procurement initiatives.
• Lead supplier relationship management at the most senior level, chairing strategic supplier forums and managing critical supplier risk.
• Drive the ESG procurement agenda (supplier due diligence, ethical sourcing standards, and Scope 3 emissions reduction).

What We're Looking For

• 12+ years of procurement experience, including 5+ years in a senior procurement leadership role within retail, FMCG, or a comparable large-scale commercial environment.
• Track record of leading procurement transformation and delivering sustained savings at scale.
• Experienced in direct product sourcing as well as indirect categories.
• Strong ExCo-level presence, able to represent the function credibly and advocate for procurement as a strategic business enabler.
• MCIPS qualified or equivalent senior procurement credential.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary of £140,000 – £170,000, depending on experience.
• Annual bonus and LTIP.
• 28 days holiday and hybrid working from London.
• Pension, private health, and executive benefits.

How to Apply

To be considered for this role, please create your profile at getnextstep.com. Once your profile is complete, our matching system will evaluate your background against the role criteria and match you with the company if it's a strong fit. No cover letter required.

This role is listed by NextStep on behalf of our client. All applications are handled with confidentiality.