Website Cento Group
With almost two decades of expertise, Cento stands as an unrivalled global market leader in recruitment for the Building Services sector. Our reputation is built on forging strategic partnerships, delving into client culture for tailored recruitment. We don't just source top-tier talent; we ensure each placement aligns seamlessly with client objectives. Beyond that, we prioritise our candidates, fostering an environment that values their aspirations and career growth.
Procurement Manager | £37,000 | Reading | Permanent, Full-Time
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established and growing security specialist business seeking an experienced Procurement Manager to take ownership of their procurement, stores, and supply chain operations. This is a pivotal role that will directly support the successful delivery of projects, installations, small works, and service activities across the business.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring materials, equipment, and services are sourced, managed, and distributed efficiently while driving supplier performance, controlling costs, and maintaining high operational standards.
The Opportunity
As Procurement Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end procurement function while also managing stock control and stores operations. You will work closely with operational, technical, and finance teams to ensure materials are available when and where they are needed, helping to maintain programme delivery, protect project margins, and support the continued growth of the business.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded procurement professional who enjoys combining strategic supplier management with hands-on operational responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Supply Chain Management
- Lead and manage all procurement activities across projects, installations, small works, and service operations.
- Ensure materials and equipment are sourced in accordance with technical specifications, quality standards, and operational requirements.
- Manage the procurement process from requisition through to delivery, ensuring cost efficiency and effective cash flow management.
- Oversee order placement, tracking, and delivery coordination to support business operations.
- Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure service excellence and reliability.
- Negotiate supplier pricing, commercial terms, and framework agreements to achieve best value.
- Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and maintain accurate supplier pricing within internal systems.
- Identify potential supply chain risks and implement effective mitigation strategies.
- Continuously review and strengthen the supplier network to support business requirements and growth.
Stores & Inventory Management
- Take full responsibility for the management, organisation, and performance of the stores function.
- Ensure stock levels are maintained accurately and aligned with operational demand.
- Oversee the receipt and inspection of incoming goods against purchase orders and delivery documentation.
- Ensure all materials are correctly receipted, stored, and allocated to stock or specific projects.
- Coordinate the preparation and dispatch of materials for engineers and site deliveries.
- Maintain stock availability across all operational activities.
- Manage stock takes, cycle counts, and inventory audits to ensure accuracy and accountability.
- Oversee product returns, repairs, warranty claims, and quarantine stock processes.
- Ensure the stores environment remains organised, compliant, safe, and efficient.
What Our Client Is Looking For
- Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management within a technical, engineering, construction, or service-led environment.
- Strong supplier management and negotiation skills.
- Experience managing stores, inventory, and stock control processes.
- Commercially aware with a focus on cost control, margin protection, and operational efficiency.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
- Proficiency in procurement, inventory, and ERP/software systems.
- A proactive and solution-focused approach to supply chain and operational challenges.
To apply for this job please visit www.centogroup.com.
