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- Tasks: Lead and shape procurement strategies to make a real difference in the community.
- Company: Folkestone & Hythe District Council, a forward-thinking local government organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, health initiatives, and professional development support.
- Other info: Great location with excellent transport links and free office parking.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role influencing procurement and governance at a time of change.
- 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
- Manage and develop the procurement team
- Embed social value, innovation and SME / VCSE engagement
- Maintain contracts 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.
- 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.
Applications close on Sunday 31st May 2026 at 23:59pm. 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). Email: Jonathan.Smith@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk, Tel: 01303 853780
Procurement Manager in Folkestone 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who might have insights into Folkestone & Hythe District Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Council’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can add value to their procurement strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your previous procurement successes and how you’ve navigated challenges. We want to hear about your strategic thinking and leadership skills, so make sure you’ve got some solid examples up your sleeve.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Manager in Folkestone
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 a team 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: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward!
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 public procurement legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the rules, but that you can also navigate them effectively in your role.
✨Showcase Your 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 diverse service areas. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities, which are crucial for this role.
✨Emphasise Social Value and Innovation
Folkestone & Hythe District Council values social value and innovation in procurement. Be ready to discuss how you've embedded these principles in your previous roles and how you plan to do so in this position. This will align your vision with the council's priorities.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the council's current procurement challenges or how they measure success in their procurement strategy. Asking thoughtful questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.