Head of Procurement - Job Interview this Thursday

Hi @akei,

That’s an excellent opportunity. At this level, the interview will be very strategic and commercially focused, so preparation is key.

Before I give you targeted guidance, please answer these questions:

• Is this a first-stage interview or a final-stage interview?

• Will it be panel-based or with one or two senior leaders?

• Do you know if they will include scenario or case-based questions?

Richard

@richard-mcmunn shortlisted of 4 people, first stage interview.

• Panel based
• Scenario questions 

Hell Richard any advise on how to handle this interview?

Hi @akei,

Thank you for confirming the details. Being shortlisted as one of four candidates is a strong position to be in, so you should go into this interview confident.

Because this is a panel, first-stage interview with scenario questions, here’s how I recommend you handle it.

First, think strategically, not operationally. At Head of Procurement level, they are not looking for how you place orders or manage day-to-day issues. They want to see how you think, how you lead, and how you align procurement to business strategy in a fast-moving telecoms environment.

For scenario questions, use this simple structure:

• Clarify the objective (cost, resilience, speed, innovation, risk, ESG)

• Explain your approach (data-driven, stakeholder-led, commercially balanced)

• Show leadership and decision-making

• State the outcome you would aim to achieve

I feel it’s perfectly acceptable to pause briefly and say, “I’d like to take a moment to structure my response.” That shows senior-level composure.

Expect scenarios around:

• Managing supply chain disruption

• Negotiating high-value, complex contracts

• Balancing cost reduction with service continuity

• Handling conflict with internal stakeholders

• Transforming or modernising procurement

Always quantify impact where possible and speak in terms of value, risk mitigation, and long-term outcomes.

Because it’s a panel, make sure you:

• Address your answers to the whole panel, not just one person

• Keep responses concise and structured

• Stay calm and authoritative, even if challenged

Also be ready for:

• “What would your first 90 days look like?”

• “How do you partner with technology, finance, and operations?”

• “How do you ensure procurement adds strategic value?”

Finish strongly by asking thoughtful questions about supplier innovation, digital transformation, or how procurement supports the wider business strategy. Best of luck!

Richard