At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement projects and manage supplier relationships for local councils.
- Company: Join STAR Procurement, a dynamic team focused on value-driven services.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, professional development opportunities, and a chance to gain CIPS qualifications.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector procurement while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification and willingness to pursue CIPS qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
- Job Title
- Procurement Officer
- Service Area
- STAR Procurement – Strategy & Resources Directorate
- Team
- Delivery Team
- Reports To
- Category Manager
- Direct Reports
- None
- Job Purpose
To support the delivery of effective, compliant, and value-driven procurement services for STAR Procurement’s partner councils.
The role supports Category Managers in delivering procurement projects that achieve best value, efficiency, savings, social value, and compliance with public sector procurement regulations.
The Procurement Officer will support the full procurement lifecycle, including market engagement, tender preparation, supplier evaluation, contract award, and contract management activities.
The role provides an opportunity to develop procurement expertise through practical experience and completion of CIPS qualifications.
Key Responsibilities
- Procurement Support & Delivery
- Support the delivery of procurement projects in line with public sector procurement legislation, council policies, and Contract Procedure Rules.
- Assist Category Managers with the planning and delivery of procurement exercises.
- Support the preparation of tender documentation, specifications, evaluation criteria, and procurement reports.
- Manage procurement activities through e-tendering systems, ensuring information is accurate and deadlines are met.
- Coordinate supplier communications, events, presentations, and evaluation activities.
- Support tender evaluation processes and ensure procurement decisions are properly documented.
- Supplier & Stakeholder Management
- Develop effective working relationships with internal council departments, suppliers, contractors, and external partners.
- Provide professional and responsive support throughout the procurement process.
- Assist with supplier relationship management and contract performance monitoring.
- Communicate procurement information clearly through written reports, meetings, and correspondence.
- Commercial Analysis & Value for Money
- Gather and analyse procurement and spend information to support sourcing decisions.
- Carry out benchmarking activities to compare costs, suppliers, and market opportunities.
- Support the identification and delivery of savings, efficiencies, local spend opportunities, social value, and compliance improvements.
- Challenge requirements where appropriate to ensure value for money is achieved.
- Contract Management & Reporting
- Support the maintenance of contract registers and procurement records.
- Assist with contract management activities, including monitoring supplier performance and reporting.
- Support the preparation of procurement reports, award reports, and documentation for governance processes.
- Assist with procurement audits and continuous improvement activities.
- Process Improvement & Development
- Contribute to improving procurement processes, systems, and ways of working.
- Record and follow up actions to support service improvements.
- Share learning and support best practice across the procurement team.
- Continue professional development through training and CIPS qualifications.
- Knowledge & Experience
Essential
- Understanding of procurement principles and the procurement lifecycle.
- Awareness of public sector procurement legislation, regulations, and best practice.
- Experience working with stakeholders and supporting projects.
- Ability to analyse information and use data to support decisions.
- Experience using IT systems, databases, and procurement platforms.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
Desirable
- Experience working within a procurement, commercial, contracts, or purchasing environment.
- Experience supporting tender processes and supplier management.
- Knowledge of public sector procurement procedures.
- Experience using e-procurement systems.
- Understanding of category management and sourcing strategies.
Qualifications & Professional Development
Essential
- Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
- GCSE Maths and English or equivalent.
- Willingness to work towards CIPS qualifications (Commercial Procurement and Supply Level 4 onwards).
Desirable
- CIPS Level 4 qualification or above.
- Working towards CIPS Level 5/6 professional qualifications.
Skills & Competencies
The successful candidate will demonstrate
- Communication Skills
- Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to produce clear written documentation and reports.
- Organisation & Planning
- Ability to manage workloads, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Analytical Skills
- Ability to review information, identify trends, and support evidence-based decisions.
- Commercial Awareness
- Understanding of value for money, supplier markets, and cost considerations.
- Customer Focus
- Commitment to providing excellent service to council partners and stakeholders.
- Continuous Improvement
- Ability to identify opportunities to improve processes and services.
- Working Arrangements
- Hybrid/agile working approach, including home and office-based working.
- Ability and willingness to work across different locations and partner organisations within Greater Manchester.
- Occasional travel required to support STAR Procurement activities.
Role Summary
The Procurement Officer plays a key role in supporting STAR Procurement’s delivery of professional procurement services.
Working alongside Category Managers and procurement colleagues, the postholder helps councils achieve value for money, compliance, savings, and wider social benefits through effective purchasing and supplier management.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Procurement Officer – AR in Sale employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a leading employer in Harrow, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and engagement. Our commitment to professional growth is evident through tailored training programmes and leadership opportunities, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to the Council's strategic objectives. With a focus on diversity and community impact, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents while enjoying a supportive and dynamic workplace.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Officer – AR in Sale
✨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 Carrington Blake Recruitment.
✨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 – AR in Sale
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 Carrington Blake Recruitment:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Carrington Blake Recruitment. 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 Carrington Blake Recruitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨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 Carrington Blake Recruitment!
✨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 Carrington Blake Recruitment. 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 Carrington Blake Recruitment's culture.
