Sourcing Specialist (Procurement)

Working hours: This role is available on a part-time, job-share or full-time basis.

Salary: Attractive compensation package on experience plus an excellent benefits package

Location:Swindon, London or Whiteley, hybrid working

Closing date for applications: 3rd April 2026

The opportunity: 

If are you a results-oriented, commercially minded procurement professional with a proven track record of success in sourcing, then this is the ideal opportunity for you to join us in the UK Procurement and Vendor Management Team. You will support the sourcing, management, and delivery of new services across a wide range of categories to support the overall strategic goals whilst delivering in line with our strategy.

Many of our employees work flexibly in a variety of different ways, including part-time, flexible hours, job share, an element of working from home or compressed hours. This is because we want the best people for our roles, and we recognise that sometimes those people aren’t available full-time. Please talk to us at the interview about the flexibility you may need.

This is because we want the best people for our roles, and we recognise that sometimes those people aren’t available full-time. Please talk to us at interview about the flexibility you may need.

What will you be doing? 

• Lead sourcing deals, e.g. deal architecture, project management, negotiation and contract development.
• Understand business requirements and priorities and have the confidence to challenge the status quo.
• Run/support on, as required, various sourcing events (RFP, e-auction, one-to-one supplier negotiations) of key procurementprojects (inc. renewals, new license purchases, professional services engagements)
• Support the development of sourcing strategy and category plans with the input of analysis and insight.
• Identify, mitigate and escalate contractual related risks as well as commercial issues in order to ensure compliance and manage and control specific cost variables.
• Ensure the business is adequately protected, by executing and maintaining governance and compliance procedures and ensuring they are up-to-date and comply with local regulatory and legal requirements.
• Provide specialist advice to address specific technical queries from internal stakeholders and deliver appropriate solutions, in line with the organization´s policies and processes and Regulatory requirements.
• Keep abreast of market developments and insights through the use of insight tools and attend key supplier events for categories that you may be responsible for.
• High level of communication influencing and negotiation skills, coupled with an ability to build relationships at all levels of the organisation.
• Responsible for obtaining all approvals as part of full management process from required functions depending on the deals.
• Provide ongoing advice and guidance and support to the business internally on all procurement matters and processes.
• Cost savings/financial targets – contribute to overall financial targets of sourcing and procurement via achieving cost savings in line with group savings methodology.

What are we looking for?

Chances are you have a broad range of experience gained in either a Sourcing environment, in something like Procurement or contract management, with a high level of commercial acumen and delivery focus.  You may have worked within a regulated environment and understand the intricacies of managing suppliers and contracts within the guidelines and frameworks laid out.  But what matters is that you’re eager to learn and are highly motivated with a drive and ability to succeed at any given task.

You’re highly organised, with a natural ability to analyse existing practices and plan, coordinate, and track projects effectively. Detail‑driven and thorough, you excel at briefing others and managing shifting priorities in a fast‑paced environment. You’re confident working to exceptionally tight deadlines and consistently apply strong attention to process, detail, and quality. Above all, you’re a collaborative team player—flexible, supportive, and instinctively able to bring out the best in those around you.

It’ll come with great autonomy. But you won’t be alone. We have a great team within Procurement and Vendor Management who you’ll be able to draw on for support.

Your skills and experience:

• Experience in sourcing and managing contracts and suppliers in a regulated environment is desirable.
• Effective problem solver, ability to quickly assess technical escalations.
• High level of commercial knowledge with sound business acumen, and the ability to assess and interpret contractual terms whilst aligning to the business objectives – essential.
• Strong and effective Meeting Management skills are essential.
• Good interpersonal and networking skills, and highly articulate team player.
• Strong delivery focus with an ability to help others get on board quickly with changing priorities.

What will you get in return?

Everyone’s different. That’s why at Zurich, we offer a wide range of employee benefits so our people can choose what fits them and their life. Our benefits provide real flexibility so our people can make considered choices and tailor their benefits throughout the year. Our benefits include 12% defined non-contributory pension scheme, annual company bonus, private medical insurance and the option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday.

Follow the link for more information about our benefits - Employee benefits | Working at Zurich Insurance UK

As an inclusive employer we want to ensure that all candidates feel comfortable and are able to perform at their best during the interview. You’ll have the opportunity to let us know of any reasonable adjustment or practical support needed when you apply.

Who we are:

At Zurich we aspire to be one of the most responsible and impactful businesses in the world and the best global insurer. Together we’re creating a brighter future for our customers, our people and our planet.

With over 55,000 employees in more than 170 countries, you’ll feel the support of being part of a strong and stable company who are a long-standing player in the insurance industry.

We’ve made a promise to each other and every employee; to focus on sustainable impact, to care about each other’s wellbeing, to use our diverse expertise to be curious and optimistic and to develop the skills needed for our future. 

If you're interested in working in a dynamic and challenging environment for a company that recognises and rewards your creativity, initiatives and contributions - then Zurich could be just the place for you. Be part of something great.

Our Culture:

At Zurich, our sense of community is strong and we’re particularly passionate about diversity and inclusion, which we’ve won numerous awards for. We want our people to bring the whole of themselves to work and ensure everybody is made to feel welcome, regardless of their background, beliefs or culture. We want our employees to reflect the diversity of our customers, and so are committed to treating all of our applicants fairly and with respect, irrespective of their actual or assumed background, disability or any other protected characteristic.

We’ve an environment that places a real importance on our people’s wellbeing from a physical, mental, social and financial perspective. We work with our wellbeing partners and industry experts to provide the best advice and access to a wealth of lifestyle support. We’re also committed to continuous improvement and we offer access to a comprehensive range of training and development opportunities.

We’re passionate about supporting employees to help others by getting involved in volunteering, charitable and community activity. Our charitable arm, Zurich Community Trust, is one of the longest-established corporate trusts in the UK. In that time, we’ve awarded grants and volunteered time to deserving causes in the UK valued at over £90 million.

So make a difference. Be challenged. Be inspired. Be supported, Love what you do. Work for us.