At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for IT goods and services, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
- Company: Join the UK's leading aviation regulator with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days leave, and a free onsite gym.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse environment while developing your career.
- Qualifications: MCIPS Level 4 and experience in public sector procurement required.
- Other info: Embrace hybrid working and collaborate across teams for continuous learning.
The predicted salary is between 34700 - 42000 £ per year.
Salary: £39,702 up to £49,000 dependent upon experience
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Security Level: SC
Location: Hybrid
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.
Reporting directly to the Head of Procurement, the Procurement Specialist plays a key role in supporting the organization with the acquisition of Information Technology (IT) goods and services. This position focuses on identifying suitable suppliers, negotiating commercial terms, and overseeing the lifecycle of contracts related to IT products and services to ensure value, compliance, and efficiency.
We are seeking a full-time, permanent Procurement Specialist to join our team and take ownership of the end-to-end sourcing and procurement of Information Technology (IT) goods and services. This will include, but is not limited to, professional services, consultancy, hardware, software, systems, applications, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
- Lead low to high value procurements related to information technology (IT) category.
- Ensure all procurements are performed compliantly in accordance with CAA's Procurement Policy and external legal requirements including but not limited to; Procurement Act 2023 and Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
- Management of contract renewals, contract changes, supplier performance and contractual disputes.
- Support CAA colleagues in effective contract management.
- Be an internal advocate for Procurement including leading monthly Procurement business partnering meetings with key allocated internal clients to support current and existing purchasing needs.
- Attend and represent Procurement on internal governance and project meetings.
- Provide practical advice and best practice guidance on internal client and external supplier queries.
- Extract and analyse spend and contract data from CAA's systems as required to fulfil duties under this role.
- Ensure completion of all work-related administration.
- Lead and or assist on projects or initiatives.
About You
- You will be confident working independently, take ownership of your work and be committed to delivering an excellent service to your stakeholders.
- You must be comfortable working in a fast-paced and busy environment with high volume and quick turnaround.
- MCIPS qualified to minimum Level 4.
- Demonstrable experience of working in public sector procurement with a good knowledge and working experience of the Public Sector procurement requirements such as Public Contracts Regulations and Procurement Act 2023.
- Demonstrable experience of sourcing and managing IT contract across a broad range of goods and services.
- Demonstrable experience of using Government Frameworks, such as Crown Commercial Services (e.g. G-Cloud, Technology Products and Services, etc) to source IT goods and services.
- Knowledge of financial procedures including price, cost and bid analysis.
- Confident working at all levels and including key stakeholders and communicating effectively.
- Organised, thorough and able to prioritise workload and approach issues positively to ensure effective resolution.
- Able to demonstrate ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively.
- Ability to manage multiple categories of diverse spend requests.
- Contract management experience, understanding SLAs/KPIs and applying these in contract management, dispute resolution, financial management and reporting.
- Knowledge of SAP Business By Design (P2P system) and Delta (eSourcing tool) would be great but not essential.
What Can We Offer You?
The opportunity to work in an interesting multi-category environment, with a wide range of different stakeholders at all levels of the organisation. The level of diversity in the work means that every day is different which provides a fantastic opportunity and experience. Working in a small and friendly team, there are opportunities to collaborate on procurements, share knowledge and support team members to deliver best practice and value.
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.
For more information on CTC and SC clearance please visit - Vetting explained - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
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. We are now working with colleagues and visitors to understand what we need in our new office, before we start our property search. We will sell Aviation House and land, vacate the site and move to new premises, but we do not expect to move before 2028.
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. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.
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 know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance.
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!
Our Values
Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone.
Closing Date: Wednesday 20th August 2025
Interview Date: 1st interview dates: 28-29th August, 1st -2nd September. Interview Process – Two stage interview, 1st – Competency-based interview. 2nd – Meeting with the Head of Finance, Procurement and Workplace Services.
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.
No recruitment agencies please.
Procurement Specialist in London employer: Civil Aviation Authority
Contact Detail:
Civil Aviation Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aviation and procurement sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral. Don’t be shy; people love to help!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Civil Aviation Authority and understand their procurement processes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around IT goods and services.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your past procurement successes to the table. Whether it’s negotiating contracts or managing supplier relationships, let them know you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll have access to exclusive resources that can help you stand out in the hiring process.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Specialist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Specialist role. Highlight your experience in public sector procurement and any relevant IT contract management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific examples from your past experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your MCIPS qualification and any experience with Government Frameworks like G-Cloud. We’re keen on candidates who can demonstrate their knowledge of procurement policies and compliance, so make it clear!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the Civil Aviation Authority!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civil Aviation Authority
✨Know Your Procurement Policies
Familiarise yourself with the Civil Aviation Authority's Procurement Policy and relevant legislation like the Procurement Act 2023. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your understanding of compliance and your readiness to navigate the procurement landscape.
✨Showcase Your IT Sourcing Experience
Prepare specific examples of your past experiences in sourcing IT goods and services. Highlight any successful negotiations or contract management scenarios you've handled, as this will demonstrate your capability to manage the end-to-end procurement process effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to discuss how you’ve collaborated with various stakeholders in previous roles. The ability to communicate effectively at all levels is crucial, so think of examples where you’ve successfully partnered with internal clients to meet their procurement needs.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Since the role involves extracting and analysing spend and contract data, prepare to discuss your analytical skills. Bring examples of how you've used data to inform procurement decisions or improve supplier performance, showcasing your ability to add value through analysis.