At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Procurement and Commissioning Network, delivering training and answering complex queries.
- Company: Join CIPFA, a leader in public financial management with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, 4-day work week, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a respectful culture that values autonomy and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government while developing your skills in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
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.
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 non‑technical audiences 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.
Benefits:
- 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.
Please let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Procurement Network Advisor employer: CIPFA Business Limited
CIPFA is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees. With a unique 4-day working week, generous benefits, and a culture of respect and collaboration, we empower our team to balance personal and professional commitments while making a meaningful impact in public financial management. Join us to be part of a supportive environment that values your expertise and offers opportunities for continuous development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Network Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the public sector procurement space. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your knowledge of procurement laws and practices during interviews. Bring examples of how you've tackled complex queries or delivered training sessions. This will demonstrate your value and make you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When applying for roles, especially at CIPFA, make sure to highlight your experience with specific legislation like the Subsidy Control Act 2022. Show how your skills align with their needs, and don’t forget to mention your ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of something impactful!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Network Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in public sector procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of communication with subscribers and delivering training events, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly. Use your written application to reflect your communication style and make it engaging!
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention any professional qualifications or degrees that relate to procurement and financial management. We’re looking for candidates who can bring their knowledge to the table, so make sure this shines through in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at CIPFA Business Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public sector procurement laws and the specific regulations mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss the Subsidy Control Act 2022 or the Procurement Act 2023 confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Since the role involves delivering tailored training events, think about how you can demonstrate your ability to adapt your communication style. Prepare examples of how you've successfully tailored workshops or presentations to different audiences in the past.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
The job requires keeping up with new developments in procurement. Be ready to discuss how you stay informed about changes in legislation and best practices. You might even want to bring a recent article or case study to reference during the interview.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your experience working collaboratively with teams and other networks. Share specific examples of how you’ve contributed to shared goals in previous roles, as this will resonate well with their emphasis on teamwork and collaboration.
