Contract: Permanent working 35 hours per week ( Arts Council also recognises the benefit of flexible working as a valued part of the way we work, and welcome applications from individuals who require flexibility)
Salary: £56,561 per annum Grade B plus benefits including a final salary pension scheme, generous annual leave, and flexible and hybrid working.
Location: Manchester (The role will be based in Manchester; however, we are operating a hybrid way of working and support our staff to make use of remote working options when combined with regular on-site contact days with other members of the team, normally 1-2 days a week)
About the Role
Are you a public sector procurement specialist looking for a role where you can take ownership and drive impact?
As our Head of Procurement, you will lead the Arts Council on the effective procurement of goods and services, ensuring compliance with public procurement regulations. You will be responsible for developing policies, identifying savings and efficiencies, and leading on major procurement projects and tender exercises valued up to £5m.
You will act as the organisation's go-to expert, upskilling wider teams, managing framework agreements, and embedding our core commitments to diversity, social value, and sustainability into everything we buy.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Strategy: Lead the procurement function, develop organizational procurement plans, and collaborate with external partners including the Crown Commercial Services (CCS) and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
- Tendering & Frameworks: Create and manage framework agreements, identify pre-existing applicable frameworks, and develop invitation-to-tender documentation alongside budget-holders.
- Risk & Compliance: Continuously review changes to legislation and case law to keep policies up to date, minimizing legal and compliance risks for the organisation.
- Contract Management & Insights: Implement robust contract management strategies, provide staff training, and produce key management information to analyse the organisation's overall expenditure profile.
What We Are Looking For
- Public Sector Expertise: Substantial experience leading a procurement function with a thorough, practical knowledge of Public Contract Regulations and OJEU procurements.
- Qualifications: You hold, or are actively working towards, a professional procurement qualification (such as a CIPS Advanced Diploma level).
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., Delta or similar) and Microsoft Excel skills.
- Autonomy & Analytical Power: Proven ability to work with limited direction, strong problem-solving skills, and a sharp attention to detail.
- Communication & Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, and influence stakeholders
- Values-Driven: A strong understanding of a public body's duties under current diversity legislation, alongside a passion for the arts and culture sector.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement: Arts Council are committed to being an inclusive employer, building an inclusive workplace, and recruiting a workforce that is as diverse as the communities we serve. However, you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role at Arts Council.
About us: Arts Council offers a range of benefits to our employees including hybrid and flexible working, a generous annual leave allowance and the Arts Council Retirement Plan - a final salary scheme.
Our Code of Ethics requires that employees of the Arts Council are not able to receive an Arts Council grant, investment or loan funding - either in person, as a member of a partnership, or for any organisation they own. There are also limitations on board or CEO positions employees can hold in organisations we fund. For more information on this, please talk to the recruiting manager or contact recruitment@artscouncil.org.uk
Job ref: FCS27
1 st Interview: (virtual) 26 and 28 October 2026
2 nd Interview: (In person) 5 November 2026
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Head of Procurement (FCS27) in Manchester employer: Changeworknow is part of the Access Group
Hartpury University and Hartpury College is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises professional development and employee wellbeing. With hybrid working arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to continuous improvement, staff are supported in their roles while enjoying the beautiful Gloucestershire campus. The institution's strong focus on quality education and high graduate employability makes it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in higher education.
Contact Details:
Changeworknow is part of the Access Group Recruitment Team
