Procurement & Payments Manager

London, UK Harris Lee Procurement & Payments Manager Permanent | Full Time | South London We are looking for an experienced Procurement & Payments Manager to join a growing education organisation and take responsibility for its procurement, supplier, contract and payment functions. This is a newly developed position offering considerable scope to improve processes, strengthen supplier management and identify opportunities to achieve better value for money. The Role Working closely with senior finance leaders and budget holders, you will: * Lead procurement and payment processes across the organisation * Manage supplier relationships and contract administration * Review expenditure and identify cost-saving opportunities * Ensure strong financial controls and procurement compliance * Develop more effective procurement processes and procedures * Support budget holders with procurement planning * Lead and develop a small team * Drive continuous improvement across purchasing and supplier management The Ideal Candidate You will have a strong background in procurement, purchasing, supplier management, contracts or payments, combined with good commercial and financial awareness. You should be confident analysing spend, negotiating and managing supplier relationships, challenging existing ways of working and influencing senior stakeholders. Previous experience within education, the public sector or a regulated environment would be advantageous, although candidates from other sectors with strong transferable procurement experience are encouraged to apply. This is a permanent, full-time opportunity with an ASAP start and the chance to play a significant role in shaping and developing an important organisational function