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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for goods and services, ensuring value for money in cancer research.
- Company: The Institute of Cancer Research is a leading global cancer research institute with over 100 years of impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, exclusive staff benefits, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team that values innovation and collaboration in the fight against cancer.
- Qualifications: Significant category management experience and a professional procurement qualification are essential.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants and encourage those passionate about the role to apply.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 102000 £ per year.
Key Information
- Salary: £85,000 per annum
- Hours per week: 35 hours per week
- Location: Working across both Chelsea and Sutton sites, this role is eligible for hybrid working.
We reserve the right depending on application numbers to close or extend the closing dates for positions, we would therefore recommend an early application.
Job Details
As Head of Procurement, you will lead the provision of sustainable, best-practice arrangements for the procurement of goods and services, and the delivery of value for money in the pursuit of the ICR’s research mission. You will be responsible for leading the procurement service across the ICR, incorporating strategic category management, sustainable procurement practice, and operational procurement support. You will work with senior internal and external stakeholders to ensure best value is achieved whilst complying with legislative requirements. This will involve leading on the development and implementation of procurement policies and systems, and developing a business partnering approach to category management to embed best practice within areas of key expenditure.
Key Requirements
The successful candidate must have significant category management experience within a complex organisation with significant capital expenditure requirements. They will hold a professional procurement qualification (MCIPS or equivalent), and have excellent interpersonal skills, able to build strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders and to negotiate and influence outcomes that promote the ICR's commercial interests. They will also have strong systems and data skills, able to take an analytical, data-driven approach to driving value in the ICR's supply chain.
Department/Directorate Information
The Procurement team supports the ICR in a wide range of products and services – from specialist lab equipment to laptops, stationery, support from design agencies and travel. We help all divisions and directorates with their buying needs.
We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. We welcome applications from individuals seeking a job share arrangement for this role.
For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Liam Blake (email).
About The Institute Of Cancer Research
Why work for us? As a member of staff, you'll have exclusive access to a range of staff benefits. The ICR is committed to supporting overseas applicants applying for roles. The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. Further information about working at the ICR can be found here.
At the Institute of Cancer Research, we champion diversity as we believe it fuels innovation and drives impactful research. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. Don't let a checklist of qualifications hold you back – if you're passionate about the role, we want to hear from you. Your unique experiences and backgrounds contribute to the richness of our team. We are committed to being an equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Purchasing and Supply Chain
Industries: Research Services
Contact Detail:
The Institute Of Cancer Research Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable procurement. The Institute of Cancer Research values sustainability, so showcasing your knowledge in this area during discussions can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in complex organisations. Building relationships can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your category management experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven value and improved processes in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out for an informal chat with Liam Blake, as mentioned in the job description. This can give you valuable insights into the role and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Procurement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Procurement position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in category management and procurement practices.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your significant category management experience within complex organisations. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led procurement initiatives and achieved value for money.
Showcase Interpersonal Skills: Since the role requires excellent interpersonal skills, include examples of how you've built strong relationships with stakeholders. Mention any successful negotiations or collaborations that demonstrate your ability to influence outcomes.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application is tailored to the Institute of Cancer Research's mission and values. Express your passion for their work and how your unique experiences can contribute to their goals in cancer research.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute Of Cancer Research
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Head of Procurement role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as strategic category management and sustainable procurement practices. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Given the importance of building relationships with stakeholders, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully negotiated and influenced outcomes in previous roles. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Thinking
The role requires strong systems and data skills. Be ready to share specific instances where you've used data-driven approaches to improve procurement processes or drive value in the supply chain. This will showcase your analytical capabilities.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the ICR's procurement strategies, challenges they face, or their approach to sustainability. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
