At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement processes and manage tender operations across the Council.
- Company: Join a dynamic Council team focused on strategic change and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working locations, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Great chance to learn and grow in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public procurement while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Two A Levels or equivalent; experience in public sector procurement preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
Directorate: Corporate Services
Department: Strategic Change
Location: Initially City Hall, The Castle, Bangor; however, you may be required to work in any location within the Council.
Reports To: Senior Procurement Officer
Salary Scale: PO1 SCP 29 to 32
Car User Status: Casual
Purpose and Function of the Post
Provision of operational procurement support (including the delivery and management of tender processes) across the Council, within the constraints of both UK and European public procurement legislation.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Maintain procurement awareness corporately across the organisation and deliver procurement training, support, and advice to departments as required.
- Support individual sections across the Council in developing local procedures in line with the overall corporate procurement objectives.
- Support sections in ensuring that appropriate legislative and procedural standards are adhered to.
- Deputise for the Senior Procurement Officer (SPO) at relevant meetings when required.
- Provide technical support to both Officers and local suppliers and provide tender support as required.
- Support the SPO in the operational management of corporate contracts across the Council, including contract management with both Officers and suppliers.
- Support the SPO in updating procurement information available to Officers and suppliers on both the Intranet and Internet sites and communicate the same through training, briefing sessions, and roadshows for both Council employees and local suppliers.
- Maintain the use of an e-procurement platform for the issue and submission of all tenders and implement and encourage the use of other sustainable procurement strategies across the Council.
- Assist the Procurement Manager in delivering the results of procurement reviews on a timely basis.
- Comply with and promote equality, health and safety in accordance with Council policies and legal requirements.
- Undertake any other appropriate duties as may be allocated from time to time in accordance with the general nature of the post.
Employee Specification
The person specification provides information on the qualifications, experience, knowledge, and skills required to carry out the duties of the post. The essential criteria will be used for shortlisting and as part of the selection process.
Qualifications
- Essential: Two A Levels or an equivalent Level 3 qualification.
- Desirable: Membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), or CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply, or equivalent.
Experience
- Essential: At least 18 months' relevant public sector procurement experience, including the management of tender processes for a diverse range of goods, services, and works.
- Experience in the use of e-procurement.
- Experience in the use of Microsoft Office and related packages, particularly Word, Excel, and presentation software.
- Desirable: Experience in the delivery of Corporate/Collaborative Contracts.
Key Skills & Abilities
- Essential: Knowledge, understanding, and application of UK public procurement legislation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Demonstrate high levels of initiative.
- Desirable: Presentation skills.
Other Requirements
- Essential: A current full driving licence and access to a suitable form of transport. Applicants without a full driving licence should have access to a form of transport to enable them to meet the nature and requirements of the post.
- Access to a good internet and Wi-Fi service if working from home or on a hybrid basis.
- Consent to a Basic AccessNI check.
- The above alternative (access to a suitable form of transport) is a reasonable adjustment specifically for applicants with disabilities who, as a result of their disability, are unable to hold a valid driving licence.
The selection panel reserves the right to enhance the shortlisting criteria to facilitate the process when necessary.
Procurement Officer employer: Ards and North Down Borough Council
As a Multiskilled Technician with our Environmental Services team, you will join a supportive and dynamic work culture that values teamwork and professional growth. Located at the Balloo/North Road Depot, you will have access to ongoing training opportunities and the chance to work on a diverse fleet of vehicles, ensuring your skills are continuously developed in a rewarding environment. We prioritise employee wellbeing and safety, making this an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and impactful employment.
Contact Details:
Ards and North Down Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Officer
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Ards and North Down Borough Council.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Ards and North Down Borough Council:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Ards and North Down Borough Council. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Ards and North Down Borough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ards and North Down Borough Council
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Ards and North Down Borough Council!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Ards and North Down Borough Council. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Ards and North Down Borough Council's culture.
