About Ashurst:

Ashurst is a leading progressive global law firm with a rich history spanning more than 200 years. We are proud of our history and are future-focused, having expanded into new technologies through our NewLaw division, Ashurst Advance, and our consulting arm. Our in-depth understanding of our clients and commitment to providing excellent standards of service have seen us become a trusted adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law.

In order to comply with regulatory and client requirements, Ashurst will undertake appropriate vetting of staff. When applicants accept a job offer, Ashurst, alongside a specialist provider, will undertake professional verification and background checks. These checks are only undertaken with consent, and in accordance with our legal and regulatory obligations.

Department/Role overview (6 month Fixed Term Contract)

The Procurement team provide support to the operational functions across the globe in order to i) maximise the value of the firms third party spend and ii) identify and manage risks across the firms supply chain. These activities are carried out in conjunction with business stakeholders the OGC and Risk & Compliance. A key aspect of the role is ensuring that all third party spend is incurred in accordance with Ashurst's internal processes and risk appetite.

Main responsibilities

• Manage own workload on procurement related activities as required, to include, but not limited to vendor cleansing, vendor rationalisation, sourcing, supplier and contract management and process design. This role will be required to handle all levels of spend/complexity/risk.
• Building relationships across all stakeholders and if required.
• Raise the role of Procurement across all Ashurst offices.
• Increase awareness of Procurement and Risk Management processes across the business and embed these in local business practices.
• Work with stakeholders to collate and analyse internal data, contracts and business requirements.
• Evaluate, analyse and compare costs submitted by vendors and make recommendations.
• Support identification of vendor rationalisation and cost saving opportunities and contribute to the development and implementation of cost reduction plan.
• Analyse market competitions to develop cost and performance improvement initiatives.
• Develop local market knowledge.
• Identify process improvement opportunities

Essential skills and experience

• Must have extensive experience in procurement and supply chain management.
• Excellent understanding of procurement and supply chain management strategies
• Commercial astuteness
• Expert ability in commercial and contractual negotiation
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to challenge and influence stakeholders at all levels of the business.
• Good understanding of contract management principles.
• Familiarity with Excel

Desired Skills and experience

• BA/BSc in Business Management/Supply Chain Management or similar.
• Prior experience in professional services.