James Howarth

Background

About James Howarth

Experienced versatile procurement and buying professional with over 25 years of experience spanning 3 diverse and individual market sectors, currently part of Public sector procurement in local government for Cornwall Council, prior to which 5 years in Food Manufacturing procurement with savoury pastry brand leader Ginsters and key group purchasing categories for there parent co. Samworth Brothers group. Retail buying in highly competitive discounter channel for 20 years, heading multiple categories including FMCG and Furniture managing thousands of SKUs and import experience. Able to leverage the advantage multi industry insight and use this to strengthen strategic decision making and negotiation with multiple stakeholders and partners.Committed, hardworking, intelligent, analytical, quick thinking, innovative, diligent and thorough person, with integrity a keen eye for detail and not afraid to think outside the box, manage change or problem solve. Great with people and communication, comfortable working autonomously, as part of a team or cross functionally.KEY SKILLS & STRENGTHS• Excellent negotiation skills, seasoned negotiator • Strong influencing skills and commercial ability • End to end procurement experience, concept / business need, product selection, launch and beyond- Complex tendering and public procurements• Strategic thinking and sourcing• Change positive, cost reductions, tenders, outsourcing, discount and rebate schemes• Enhancing sustainability and CSR, responsible, local and international sourcing / importing• Supplier risk management• Agreeing contracts, T & Cs, SLAs, KPIs and analysis• Strong relationship management, building relationships with large suppliers, working to develop small suppliers and stakeholder engagement at all levels• Category management, range analysis, planning and review • Value analysis and value engineering• Experience with major brands• Great communicator with a positive and a can do attitude• Team player who effectively collaborates, team development and mentoring• Impeccable time-management, delivering complex often cross functional projects on time Diploma CIPS - Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply