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- Tasks: Lead procurement processes and manage contracts for a cutting-edge science facility.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, the UK's premier synchrotron science facility driving innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible hours, and access to on-site amenities like cafes and sports facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of a £500m upgrade project, contributing to groundbreaking scientific advancements.
- Qualifications: Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply qualified or equivalent experience in UK Public sector procurement.
- Other info: Occasional international travel may be required; apply by 21st September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Primarily based onsite at Diamond Light Source, Harwell, Oxfordshire /limited home working may be available
About Us
Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility. By accelerating electrons to near light-speed, Diamond generates brilliant beams of light from infra-red to X-rays which are used for academic and industry research and development across a range of scientific disciplines including structural biology, physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, earth and environmental sciences.
About the Role
We now have an opportunity for a Procurement and Contracts Manager to take the next step in their careers by joining our small procurement team at this exciting time of development for Diamond.
Diamond is undertaking a £500m upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond-II, and this role will play a part in contributing to the upgrade.
The Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager will work ensure the timely delivery of contracts to Diamond, and closely with our Technical and Scientific teams to ensure that the most appropriate Procurement tendering routes are selected.
Further accountabilities will include:
- Line management of team members, providing professional leadership, support, motivation and development.
- Managing high value / complex procurements from tender through to contract completion.
- Managing supplier relationships to ensure their performance is in line with expectations, to ensure the supply chain works to meet Diamond’s objectives and to resolve any disputes.
- Reporting to Senior Management on supplier progress, providing strategies to deal with any issues.
- Preparing and issuing of invitations to tender (EU and UK), evaluating bids, analysing, negotiating, placing contracts and de-briefing suppliers in line with European Legislation and company requirements.
- Providing professional advice to staff to ensure purchase orders, contracts and agreements are commercially viable and legally compliant.
This role may involve occasional international travel to visit suppliers.
About You
The successful candidate will be Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply qualified (or similar professional qualification), working towards this, or demonstrate extensive equivalent experience.
You will have experience of Procurement in the UK Public sector with knowledge of the UK Public Procurement regulations, with further commercial experience desirable.
You will also demonstrate:
- Line management skills and experience.
- An established track record managing high value / complex procurements from tender through to contract completion in a technically challenging environment.
- Knowledge of different procurement routes and experience of selecting the most advantageous.
- The ability to analyse and feedback on supplier performance to inform future Procurement decisions
- The ability to provide professional Procurement advice to Diamond staff
You will need excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiation and presentation, skills with the ability to influence and build relationships with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
Benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.
Closing date: 21st Septemner 2025, interviews will take place on site at Diamond Light Source on 6th October 2025
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Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement regulations and practices within the UK public sector. Understanding these nuances will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in technical environments similar to Diamond Light Source. This can provide you with insights and potentially valuable connections that could aid your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences managing high-value procurements. Be ready to share specific examples of challenges faced and how you successfully navigated them, as this will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Diamond Light Source and its ongoing projects, particularly the Diamond-II upgrade. Being knowledgeable about their current initiatives will allow you to tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in managing high value and complex procurements, particularly in a UK Public sector context. Provide specific examples of past projects where you successfully navigated procurement processes.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves line management, make sure to include examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you have motivated and developed team members in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead within the procurement team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to explain why you are passionate about the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be sure to address how you can contribute to Diamond's objectives, especially regarding the ongoing £500m upgrade project.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and the specific responsibilities of the Senior Procurement and Contracts Manager. Familiarise yourself with Diamond Light Source's current projects, especially the £500m upgrade, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in managing high-value and complex procurements. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated tender processes and supplier relationships, particularly in a technically challenging environment.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves line management, be prepared to talk about your leadership style and experiences. Highlight instances where you've motivated and developed team members, and how you handle disputes or challenges within a team.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have insightful questions ready for your interviewers about the procurement strategies at Diamond Light Source and how they align with the organisation's objectives. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
