At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for People Services, ensuring value and compliance across various sectors.
- Company: Local Authority focused on community welfare and service improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, bi-weekly payments, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentorship and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public services while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and contract management within the public sector.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
6 Month Contract With A local Authority
Job Purpose
To lead and manage procurement activity across the People Services category, ensuring procurement strategies and programmes support the Council’s corporate objectives, service priorities, and Medium Term Financial Strategy. The postholder will provide expert procurement leadership and strategic advice across a diverse portfolio including Social Care, Education, Public Health, Welfare Services, Supported Accommodation, and Homelessness services. The role is responsible for ensuring procurement activity delivers value for money, complies with relevant legislation and governance requirements, and supports continuous service improvement. The role will also deputise for the Head of Procurement where required.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead procurement activity across the People Services category including Adults and Children’s Social Care, Public Health, Education, Welfare Services, Supported Accommodation, and Homelessness services.
- Develop and implement category procurement strategies and plans that deliver value for money and support service objectives.
- Ensure procurement activity complies with the Procurement Act 2023, NHS Provider Selection Regime, Contract Standing Orders, and Council governance procedures.
- Provide high-level specialist procurement advice and support to senior managers, project managers, and contract managers.
- Lead and manage procurement projects from initiation through to implementation and contract award.
- Oversee tendering, contract negotiations, supplier management, and contract monitoring activities.
- Develop innovative procurement and contracting solutions to meet complex service requirements.
- Monitor procurement performance, risks, compliance, and delivery against agreed objectives and performance indicators.
- Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure best value while maintaining service quality and business continuity.
- Support the development and implementation of procurement systems, programme management frameworks, and best practice processes.
- Manage and mentor procurement staff, project managers, consultants, and junior team members where appropriate.
- Lead investigations, procurement reviews, and sensitive contract management activities as required.
- Promote continuous improvement, training, and skills development across procurement and contract management functions.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety, GDPR, equal opportunities, and Council policies and procedures.
- Support emergency planning and business continuity arrangements within the service area.
Requirements
- Significant experience in procurement, contract management, and commissioning within a complex public sector environment.
- Strong knowledge of procurement legislation, governance frameworks, and contract management best practice.
- Experience leading high-value procurement projects and managing supplier relationships.
- Understanding of procurement within People Services including Social Care, Public Health, Housing, or Education.
- Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills.
- Experience managing teams, projects, and multiple competing priorities.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and work collaboratively across departments.
- Knowledge of risk management, programme management, and performance monitoring frameworks.
- Commitment to equality, customer service, and continuous improvement.
Additional Information
- Location: Royal Borough of Greenwich
- Hours per Week: 35 Hours
- Payment Schedule: Bi-Weekly Pay
Category Lead - People Services in Greenwich employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
As a leading local authority, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. Our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in procurement within the People Services category ensures that you will play a vital role in shaping essential community services while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with dedicated colleagues in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Lead - People Services in Greenwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector, especially those involved in procurement. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the local authority's recent projects and challenges in People Services. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute right away!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that role! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Lead - People Services in Greenwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in procurement and contract management, especially within the public sector. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the People Services category.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use concrete examples of how you’ve led procurement projects or improved processes in previous roles. This helps us see the value you can bring to our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to understand your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and other relevant legislation. Being able to discuss how these laws impact procurement strategies will show that you're not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them effectively in your role.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led procurement projects in the past, especially in complex public sector environments. Highlight your experience in managing teams and mentoring staff, as this role requires strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Prowess
Think of specific instances where you've successfully negotiated contracts or supplier agreements. Be ready to discuss your approach to securing best value while maintaining service quality, as this is a key responsibility of the role.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be prepared to talk about how you've promoted continuous improvement in previous roles. Discuss any innovative procurement solutions you've developed and how you've implemented best practices to enhance service delivery.
