At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Supply Chain team to source suppliers and manage vendor relationships.
- Company: A dynamic manufacturing company based in Oxford, focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with competitive pay and flexible contract terms.
- Why this job: Make an impact by optimising procurement processes and driving cost savings.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency in Excel.
- Other info: Contract role outside IR35, ideal for those seeking flexibility.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 84000 £ per year.
Procurement Specialist (Contract – Outside IR35)
Location: Hybrid – Oxford (One/Two days onsite)
Contract: 6 months
Day Rate: £350-400 per day DOE
I\’m working with a manufacturing company in Oxford that’s looking for a Procurement Specialist to join them on a 3-month contract. This role sits within their Supply Chain team and reports into the Head of Supply Chain. The position is outside IR35.
What you’ll be doing:
- Sourcing and evaluating suppliers
- Managing vendor relationships
- Negotiating contracts, pricing, and terms
- Handling purchase orders and invoice reconciliations
- Tracking supplier performance and resolving issues
- Keeping procurement records up to date
- Supporting internal teams with procurement needs
- Making sure procurement processes meet company and industry standards
- Identifying cost-saving opportunities
What they’re looking for:
- 2–5 years’ experience in procurement or supply chain
- Strong negotiation and communication skills
- Good with Excel and Microsoft Office
- Experience using ERP systems, ideally SAGE
- Organised, analytical, and good at problem-solving
- Familiar with procurement regulations and best practices
Bonus if you have:
- CIPS, CPSM or PMP certification
- Experience in manufacturing
Procurement Specialist employer: Cubiq Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Cubiq Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the procurement and supply chain field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights or leads on job opportunities, including our open positions at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific ERP systems mentioned in the job description, particularly SAGE. Consider taking a short online course or tutorial to boost your confidence and demonstrate your commitment to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interviews by practising your negotiation skills. Role-play scenarios where you negotiate contracts or pricing, as this is a key aspect of the Procurement Specialist role and will showcase your abilities during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on procurement regulations and best practices. Subscribe to industry newsletters or follow relevant blogs to ensure you can speak knowledgeably about current trends and standards during your conversations with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and supply chain. Emphasise your negotiation skills, familiarity with ERP systems like SAGE, and any certifications such as CIPS or CPSM.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the job description. Mention your 2-5 years of experience, your ability to manage vendor relationships, and how you can contribute to cost-saving opportunities.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your strong communication skills and proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office. Provide examples of how you've successfully tracked supplier performance and resolved issues in past roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in procurement roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cubiq Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Procurement Specialist, strong negotiation skills are crucial. Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved favourable outcomes, and be ready to discuss your approach to negotiating contracts and pricing.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Abilities
Highlight your analytical skills by discussing how you've used data to make informed procurement decisions. Be prepared to explain how you track supplier performance and resolve issues using analytical methods.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ERP Systems
Since experience with ERP systems like SAGE is preferred, brush up on your knowledge of these systems. If you have experience with similar software, be ready to discuss how you adapted to new systems in the past.
✨Understand Procurement Regulations
Make sure you are well-versed in procurement regulations and best practices. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your procurement processes and any challenges you've faced in this area.