At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead CIPFA’s Procurement Network, delivering training and answering complex queries.
- Company: Join CIPFA, a leader in public financial management with a mission to transform lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, and a 4-day working week.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse culture that values collaboration and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public services while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Us
At CIPFA, we’re driven by a singular purpose: to transform lives through exceptional public financial management. As a leading international accountancy body, we champion integrity, transparency, and efficiency in the use of public funds. We believe that every pound spent should deliver tangible improvements to public services, creating a better future for individuals and communities worldwide. Join us in shaping a world where public money truly makes a difference.
About the Role
CIPFA is recruiting for its Public Financial Management department and looking for individuals to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for motivated professionals who are passionate about supporting best practice in local government. The postholder will take responsibility for CIPFA’s Procurement and Commissioning Network. As an expert in public sector procurement law and practice they will ensure efficient and effective communication with subscribers, research and answer complex and detailed technical queries, and deliver tailored training events. They will also work alongside the wider Networks to deliver on shared goals. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact within the Public Financial Management department and contribute to the overall goals of CIPFA.
Key Tasks Include but not Limited to:
- Keep up to date with rules and regulations as they impact on public sector procurement and commercial contracts
- Research, write, and deliver a series of technical events throughout the year, primarily online, but including face-to-face presentation where appropriate
- Support the commercial operation of the Network by creating service plans, event promotion, and other elements to help drive subscriber retention and growth
- Tailor workshops to specific audiences as required
- Respond to detailed and complex technical queries from subscribers and provide authoritative and timely advice
- Manage the operations of the Procurement and Commissioning Network by completing annual service plans, monthly management accounts, and other administrative tasks
- Communicate with subscribers, including authoring a monthly newsletter
- Provide support to the wider Public Financial Management team and work collaboratively with other networks and advisors
About You
We are seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications and attributes:
Essential Experience
- Knowledge and experience, at a senior level, of public sector procurement
- Practical experience of delivering training courses, facilitating workshops, and other public speaking
Knowledge/Skills
- Detailed knowledge and understanding of the Subsidy Control Act 2022, The Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, Procurement Act 2023, Public Contracts Regulations 2015, Data Protection Act 2018 (UK GDPR), Freedom of Information Act 2000, Employment Rights Act 2025 and other relevant legislation, particularly in the areas of contracting, commissioning, and data protection
- Ability to research new developments in the space and deliver written and live updates on key changes to a technical audience
- A good knowledge of how procurement practices support wider financial management and governance in the public sector
- The ability to communicate technical concepts to a non-technical audience including elected members and budget holders
Qualifications
- Appropriate professional qualification (FCIPS/MSc or equivalent)
- Degree relevant to the field or equivalent experience working in the area
It is essential that candidates have a proactive attitude, excellent communication skills, and a strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
Our Employee Offer
- Reward – Giving you fair pay and generous benefits, which includes competitive salary, generous pension scheme, holiday scheme, family friendly benefits and more!
- Wellbeing – Empowering you to work flexibly, balancing your personal and professional life through our permanent 4-day working week (work 4 days, get paid for 5) and hybrid working, alongside a range of health benefits, such as access to an Employee Assistance Helpline and the opportunity to join our Health Cash Plan.
- Purpose – Connecting the work you do with its social value and impact through paid volunteering days and charity and community work.
- Growth – Enabling you to develop your skills and knowledge through access to training opportunities, paid professional membership subscriptions, and career break options.
- Culture – Our culture is one of respect. We give you a sense of belonging, supporting you to work with autonomy, openness, and collaboration.
We know that not all people come from the same background, or think the same – so why should we? At CIPFA, we want to be a great place to work where a diverse group of people from all backgrounds can turn up and thrive. When we hire, we want you to feel empowered to bring your best self to work. Please let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Procurement Network Advisor Standards and Technical · London or Chester · employer: CIPFA Business Limited
CIPFA is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming lives through public financial management, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and collaboration. With a permanent 4-day working week, generous benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the public sector. Join us in a role that not only enhances your career but also contributes to the betterment of communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Network Advisor Standards and Technical · London or Chester ·
✨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 CIPFA Business Limited.
✨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 Network Advisor Standards and Technical · London or Chester ·
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 CIPFA Business Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to CIPFA Business Limited. 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 CIPFA Business Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at CIPFA Business Limited
✨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 CIPFA Business Limited!
✨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 CIPFA Business Limited. 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 CIPFA Business Limited's culture.
