At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformational changes in construction procurement and develop effective strategies.
- Company: Join the Education Authority, a key player in Northern Ireland's public sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and leadership in a large organisation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement in education and drive continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Procurement or Business, with senior management experience.
The predicted salary is between 68475 - 68475 £ per year.
The Education Authority wish to appoint a Head of Construction Procurement.
Job Reference: 26003709
Location: Northern Ireland
Contract Type: Permanent
Status: Full-Time
Working Pattern: 36 hours per week
Vacancies: 1 Post available
Grade/Scale: Education Officer | NJC pts 53 - 56 | £65,226 - £68,475 per annum
Additional Information: Base location to be determined on appointment. The EA reserves the right to create a reserve list. Suitable applicants who are not appointed to this immediate vacancy may be placed on a reserve list which will remain valid for one year and may be offered similar appointments at the discretion of the EA during that period.
Job Purpose
The overall purpose of the role is to provide leadership of transformation changes, implement new structures, strategy policy, procured and processes for the service. To strategically lead, manage and develop the portfolio of Construction Procurement (and other procurement categories deemed appropriate by the HOS) accountable for ensuring that service delivery is focused on fostering and driving continuous improvement in meeting the needs of EA Services and Schools.
The Head of Construction Procurement will support the Head of Commercial Procurement Services and lead in the development and delivery of a procurement function for EA. This includes the contributing and management of a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE). The post holder will primarily support the delivery of the corporate objectives of the EA, using strategic and operational procurement best practice which is compliant with Government Policies, EU and National Directives and the corporate governance arrangements of the EA and its sponsoring government departments.
They will be responsible for providing procurement expertise, professional advice and assurance to the Head of Commercial Procurement Services, Assistant Director for Procurement and Corporate Services and the Head of CoPE on all procurement related matters including the supply and services category. The Head of Construction Procurement will also provide effective leadership to a team of procurement professionals to deliver an effective and compliant procurement service to EA and schools where procurement expenditure for Construction Procurement is typically in excess of approximately £200m annually.
The post holder will be reporting to the Head of Commercial Procurement and will assist in the management of the relationship and interface with Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) on all strategic policy and operational matters impacting the procurement activity of the EA. The post holder will also provide leadership of transformational change and implementation of new structures, strategy, policy and processes for the EA Procurement Service.
Essential Criteria
- Hold a Bachelors Degree (UK Qualification and Credit Framework Level 6) or an equivalent, higher or professional qualification in Procurement or Business-related subject.
- Hold full Membership of CIPS or Chartered Member of RIBA, RICS, CIOB or equivalent.
- Have three years experience of the successful management of a procurement function/procurement category and team in a large complex organisation at a senior level within a procurement/construction environment dealing with the procurement of supplies, services or works contracts that are regulated by the Public Contract Regulations/Procurement Act 2023.
- Demonstrable experience at senior management level demonstrating an ability to lead, manage, develop, and motivate staff at all levels within a changing environment.
- Demonstrable experience of NEC terms and conditions and their application through contracts.
- Demonstrable experience of the successful implementation of Procurement policies, procedures and driving continuous improvement through the implementation of these.
- Demonstrates an extensive knowledge of NI Public Procurement Policy and NI Procurement Policy Notes and their application.
- Demonstrable knowledge of the current and anticipated challenges facing NI Public Sector Procurement.
- Demonstrable commitment to continuous personal and professional development to ensure effective leadership and continuous improvement.
The successful candidate will be required:
- To have access to a suitable vehicle (appropriately maintained and insured for Education Authority business) that will enable them to carry out the mobility requirements of the post in an efficient and effective manner; OR
- Be able to provide sufficient information on the application form that will satisfy the employer that he/she has access to an appropriate alternative form of transport that will enable them to carry out the mobility requirements of the post in an efficient and effective manner.
The above criteria is an extract from the job person specification, for a full list of criteria please follow the details below on the method of application. To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. Only completed applications will be considered. To start the process click Apply Now button below.
Closing Time: Friday 10 July 2026 at 23:59
Head of Construction Procurement TLNT1_NI employer: Education Authority NI
The Education Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Northern Ireland that fosters professional growth and development. With a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in procurement practices, employees benefit from a supportive culture that values leadership and collaboration, alongside competitive remuneration and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on educational services across the region.
