Strategic Procurement Lead

About the role

The Civil Aviation Authority is seeking a Strategic Procurement Lead for a 12‑month fixed‑term to shape and execute the sourcing and procurement strategy for a large, organisation‑wide transformation programme. This senior leadership position will ensure procurement is strategic, integrated and delivers strong commercial outcomes across all programme activities.

Key responsibilities

• Define and lead the programme‑wide procurement and sourcing strategy.
• Provide governance and oversight for all procurement activities.
• Lead high‑value, complex tenders from inception to award.
• Build and uplift procurement capability, embedding tools, frameworks and commercial discipline.
• Integrate procurement with wider organisational initiatives to leverage scale and avoid duplication.
• Establish strong supplier management and commercial frameworks for strategic suppliers.
• Chair supplier governance and performance forums, driving accountability and value.
• Enable programme teams to deliver fit‑for‑purpose procurement with confidence and consistency.

Required profile

• Extensive senior experience in strategic procurement and sourcing.
• Proven track record leading complex, high‑value procurement processes.
• Experience building procurement capability and commercial maturity within organisations or programmes.
• Strong ability to integrate procurement across multiple initiatives or functions.
• Demonstrated success managing strategic supplier relationships and performance.
• Highly developed commercial acumen and negotiation expertise.
• Strong influencing skills with the ability to operate at senior leadership level.
• Experience in large transformation programmes or the public sector (desirable).

Required skills