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- Tasks: Lead and shape procurement strategies to deliver best value for the community.
- Company: Folkestone & Hythe District Council, a pivotal organisation in local governance.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, health initiatives, and professional development support.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while advancing your career in procurement.
- Qualifications: MCIPS qualified or significant progress towards CIPS Level 6 with senior procurement experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Procurement Manager to lead and shape our corporate procurement and contract management function at a time of significant opportunity and change, particularly in light of Local Government Reorganisation. This is a pivotal senior role, providing strategic and professional leadership across the Council to ensure that procurement activity delivers best value, strengthens governance and risk management, and supports our corporate priorities. You will act as the Council's lead procurement professional, influencing at senior levels, working across diverse service areas, and ensuring compliance with the Procurement Act 2023, Contract Standing Orders and Financial Procedure Rules. Join an organisation where procurement plays a vital strategic role and your work makes a real difference to the local community.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the Council's procurement and contract management framework
- Develop, implement and maintain the Procurement Strategy and Contract Standing Orders
- Advise senior officers on procurement compliance, risk and waivers
- Lead medium to high-value and high-risk corporate procurements
- Manage and develop the procurement team
- Embed social value, innovation and SME / VCSE engagement
- Maintain contract registers and transparency reporting
- Deliver procurement training and support across the organisation
About you:
- MCIPS qualified or significant progress towards CIPS Level 6
- Extensive experience in a senior procurement role
- Strong knowledge of public procurement legislation, including the Procurement Act 2023
- Proven experience leading complex procurements and contract management
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, leadership and communication skills
- Strategic, analytical and commercially focused approach
- Local government experience and management qualifications are desirable but not essential
Why Join Folkestone & Hythe District Council?
- We offer a comprehensive, people-focused rewards package designed to support your wellbeing, development and work life balance.
- Flexible, agile and hybrid working arrangements.
- Generous annual leave: up to 31 days + bank holidays, plus birthday leave and Christmas office closure.
- Flexi-time scheme to support work-life balance.
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Health & wellbeing initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Reimbursement of professional membership subscriptions
- Salary sacrifice schemes: Cycle to work and lease car options.
- Corporate discount schemes for shopping, entertainment, gym memberships, days out and more.
- Great location: centrally based, close to transport links and free office parking.
Advert Closing Date: Sunday 31st May 2026 at 11:59pm
Interviews are scheduled to take place in the week commencing 8th June 2026.
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Jonathan Smith - Chief Officer, Financial Services (Deputy s151).
How to apply: Please apply online via the link provided.
Locations
Procurement Manager in Folkestone, Kent employer: Folkestone & Hythe District Council
Contact Detail:
Folkestone & Hythe District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Manager in Folkestone, Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who have experience with local government. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Council's recent projects and initiatives. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals. Plus, it gives you great talking points during the interview!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager in Folkestone, Kent
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. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Procurement Manager, you'll be leading teams and influencing senior officers. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership style and any successful projects you've managed. We love to see examples of how you've made a difference!
Know the Legislation: Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2023 and other relevant legislation. Mentioning your knowledge in your application will show us that you're serious about compliance and governance, which is crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Folkestone & Hythe District Council
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and other relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them strategically in your role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led procurement teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to influence senior stakeholders and manage complex procurements, as this is crucial for the role at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can align procurement strategies with the council's corporate priorities. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented innovative solutions or social value initiatives in previous roles to enhance procurement outcomes.
✨Engage with the Community Focus
Since this role impacts the local community, be prepared to talk about how your procurement decisions can benefit local businesses and engage with SMEs and VCSEs. This will demonstrate your commitment to making a real difference in the community.