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- Tasks: Lead high-value procurements and provide expert advice to enhance public sector services.
- Company: Join Suffolk County Council, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to community impact and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, a competitive pension scheme, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualification or equivalent experience, strong procurement knowledge, and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged; DBS checks will be necessary.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 52000 £ per year.
Suffolk County Council are looking for a Senior Procurement Business Partner to join our team in Ipswich, Suffolk. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis working 37 hours per week (flexible working options available). The successful candidate will earn a competitive salary of £46,670 per annum. At Suffolk County Council, we’re reimagining what local government can achieve. We’re a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation, collaboration, and making a real difference in our communities. When you join us as a Senior Procurement Business Partner, you’ll be part of a team that empowers its people to explore new ideas, create meaningful connections, and shape the future of Suffolk.
About the role: As a Senior Procurement Business Partner, you’ll have proven experience in delivering complex above-threshold/high-value procurements and a good knowledge of the public sector regulations relating to Procurement. You will be responsible for providing professional procurement and commercial advice and services to specific areas of Suffolk County Council, up to and including Assistant Director level based on their business objectives and market strategies. You’ll be supporting others in the council to help ensure high standards of public procurement, commercialism, and contract management are upheld. This could include direct line management, mentoring others in the team, or providing training to the wider organisation.
About you: To apply for this role, you will need:
- Procurement professional qualification (CIPS or equivalent) or relevant proven experience and knowledge
- To be educated to level 6 or have equivalent skills and knowledge
- Technical procurement knowledge/experience and knowledge of contract law
- Good IT, numeracy, and literacy skills
- Effective communication and networking skills.
About us: Working together across our councils and with our partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, we provide excellent services to our 190,000 residents across Babergh and Mid Suffolk. We are proud of the role we play in creating the environment, economy, and communities for our districts. We believe that the heart of Suffolk is an incredibly special place to live and work. With picturesque market towns, 60 conservation areas and with two National Landscapes within our districts, it is little wonder that we are consistently within the top 50 places to live in the UK.
Benefits of working for us:
- Great opportunities for learning and development.
- Generous leave entitlement (equivalent to 26 days a year, increasing to 31 days after 5 years' service, plus bank holidays).
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Wellbeing Support Program.
- Employee Assist Program.
- Health Care Options.
The Team: The Procurement Team is a highly skilled, professional, and committed team providing procurement advice and support to all areas of the council and undertaking above threshold high-value procurements. We are a friendly and supportive team who are committed to flexible working and recognise that well-being is essential to the way we work.
Empowering Everyone: We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report (suffolk.gov.uk).
Closing date: 11.30pm, 6 May 2025
Interview date: 20 and 21 May 2025
If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this Senior Procurement Business Partner role, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Senior Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich employer: Suffolk County Council
Contact Detail:
Suffolk County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Suffolk County Council's values and recent initiatives. Understanding their focus on innovation and community impact will help you align your discussions during the interview, showcasing how your experience can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Suffolk County Council, especially those in procurement roles. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of your past procurement experiences that highlight your ability to manage high-value contracts and navigate public sector regulations. Being ready to discuss these in detail will show your expertise and confidence in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends and challenges in public procurement, particularly in local government. Being knowledgeable about current issues will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during the interview and position yourself as a forward-thinking candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Procurement Business Partner position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, such as procurement professional qualifications and experience in public sector regulations.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise your procurement qualifications, technical knowledge, and any experience in contract law or managing high-value procurements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the organisation. Mention specific examples of how your previous experience aligns with Suffolk County Council's goals and values, particularly in innovation and collaboration.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your communication is clear and professional, reflecting the effective communication skills required for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience with complex procurements and your understanding of public sector regulations. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully navigated procurement challenges.
✨Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills
As a Senior Procurement Business Partner, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be ready to provide examples of how you've built relationships in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to contract law and procurement processes. Brush up on relevant legislation and be ready to discuss how you apply this knowledge in practice. This will show your technical proficiency and readiness for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Qualities
Since the role may involve mentoring and managing others, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've supported team members or contributed to their professional development.
