At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the procurement team in managing purchasing goods and services across various categories.
- Company: Join the UK's leading aviation and aerospace regulator with a dynamic work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days annual leave, and a free onsite gym at Gatwick.
- Other info: Embrace hybrid working and grow in a supportive, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aviation while developing your career in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40279 £ per year.
Salary £35,000 up to £40,279 dependent upon experience
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Security Level: SC
Location: Gatwick (Aviation House – Hybrid – min. 2 days in the office)
Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
We are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Procurement you will support the purchasing team to achieve its operational targets and delivery value for money. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the full end to end procurement lifecycle of purchasing goods and services across a broad range of categories with multiple values, up to current Public Procurement Regulations threshold. You will be working independently to lead on low, medium, and supporting some high value procurements in accordance with the CAA Procurement Policy and Public Procurement Regulations.
- Lead and manage the full procurement lifecycle for the acquisition of goods and services required across the CAA and its subsidiaries for low to medium spend levels up to the Public Procurement Regulations.
- Manage all phases of sourcing as required, including but not limited to market and sourcing analysis, stakeholder engagement, creation of quote/tender documents including specification drafting, management of competitive process, negotiations, contract implementation and contract management.
- Lead commercial evaluation of bids, including but not limited to price, assumptions, risks and terms and conditions.
- Carry out contract renewals and competitive quote/tender exercises.
- Manage procurements successfully whilst achieving the most advantageous contracts for CAA that deliver value for money and reduce commercial risk.
- Using CAA’s standard procurement templates (or alternative public sector frameworks), P2P and e-tendering systems during the procurement lifecycle.
- Independently manage and complete all work-related administration, including but not limited to template completion, contract database updates, work in progress updates and contract drafting.
- Support and facilitate contract administration (e.g., change control), contract and supplier performance (e.g., key performance indicators, service reviews, disputes, and escalations).
- Support business colleagues in best practice supplier management.
- Analyse spend data to identify efficiencies or cost savings and implement as agreed with line manager.
- Develop and sustain close working relationships (business partnering) with key business stakeholders, providing best practice and practical advice on all procurement matters, across all levels of the organisation.
- Identify new suppliers, tender, agree terms and negotiation supply agreements where appropriate including discount structures.
- Monitor market trends and suppliers.
- Work collaboratively to support or lead procurement activities or projects with either a direct Procurement Team member or wider business colleagues.
- Lead and manage non-competitive requests (e.g., single tender actions, non-disclosure agreements, grant funding, Freedom of Information requests, spend reports, etc).
- Provide ad-hoc support and cover for Procurement Officer function for absences.
About You
- Working towards MCIPS.
- Experience of public sector procurement (minimum 12 months).
- Experience of leading or supporting competitive exercises and evaluation of commercial bid aspects.
- Experience of understanding and using public sector frameworks.
- Experience of leading or supporting supplier and contract management, particularly implementing and monitoring service level agreements, key performance indicators and financial management.
- Strong interpersonal, communication and organisation skills.
- Comfortable working under pressure within strict deadlines.
Additional Information
For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance. To be vetted we will usually expect a reasonable period of residency in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. For this role this will need to be 5 years. If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.
The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity among employees. If invited for interview you will be asked to complete a declaration of interest.
Relocation & Property
The CAA will be relocating from Aviation House (Our Gatwick Office) to new premises in a few years’ time. Our move is driven by strategic, operational and environmental considerations. We will be moving to a new local home, up to a 15-mile radius of Aviation House, to minimise disruption for our valued colleagues and customers.
Inclusive Recruitment
We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview.
Working With Us
We are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable, where our colleagues collaborate as part of cross-functional teams. This approach ensures we never stop learning together. It also means that you may become involved in activities that take you out of your day-to-day role, providing you with opportunities to develop and grow your career with us. We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you.
We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!
Closing Date: 7th April 2026
Interview Date: 10th, 14th, 15th and 16th April 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Junior Procurement Specialist employer: Civil Aviation Authority
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Gatwick that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the CAA provides flexible working arrangements, a generous benefits package including 28 days of annual leave, and opportunities for continuous learning, making it an ideal place for those seeking a meaningful career in aviation and aerospace regulation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Procurement Specialist
✨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 Civil Aviation Authority.
✨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 Junior Procurement Specialist
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 Civil Aviation Authority:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Civil Aviation Authority. 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 Civil Aviation Authority.
How to prepare for a job interview at Civil Aviation Authority
✨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 Civil Aviation Authority!
✨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 Civil Aviation Authority. 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 Civil Aviation Authority's culture.
