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- Tasks: Lead transformative public procurement strategies for Guildford and Waverley councils.
- Company: Join Guildford Borough Council, a key player in public sector innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community value and public service excellence.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualified or working towards MCIPS; experience in public sector procurement required.
- Other info: Office presence needed 3 days a week; recruitment managed by Morgan Law.
The predicted salary is between 53976 - 75500 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Public Procurement in Surrey. Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for public sector procurement? Join Guildford Borough Council as a Senior Procurement Specialist and lead transformative change in how the Council sources goods, services, and works across two local authorities: Guildford and Waverley.
With two permanent positions available - both pivotal roles at the heart of the procurement function, with wide-ranging influence - there is an opportunity here to make a real impact. You’ll lead on end-to-end procurement strategy, champion value for money, and ensure the Council stays ahead of regulatory change.
What You'll Do:
- Design and deliver strategic sourcing plans across key categories.
- Lead procurement transformation—ensuring compliant, innovative, and efficient delivery.
- Guide and upskill procurement colleagues and service teams.
- Shape and embed contract management practices aligned with council priorities.
- Work closely with local suppliers to unlock community value and drive social outcomes.
- Ensure procurement governance aligns with UK legislation, Contract Standing Orders, and best practice.
What You'll Bring:
- Proven experience in public sector procurement, including a working knowledge of The Procurement Act 2023.
- Strong grasp of commercial strategy, regulatory compliance, and supplier relationship management.
- Ability to influence and challenge stakeholders constructively.
- Commitment to delivering social value and maximising local economic impact.
- Strategic vision with a hands-on approach to operational delivery.
Why Guildford? Set in the stunning Surrey Hills, Guildford is a vibrant, well-connected town just 30 minutes from London. With excellent transport links and a thriving economy, it offers an exceptional quality of life for residents and professionals alike.
We offer a supportive, forward-thinking work environment, hybrid working, and a real chance to shape how procurement powers public service excellence. You will be required to be in the Guildford office 3 days a week and to be considered you will need to be CIPS qualified or working towards MCIPS accreditation. The salary starts at £53,976.
Please apply now for more details.
Senior Procurement Specialist employer: Guildford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Guildford Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with The Procurement Act 2023 and its implications for public sector procurement. Understanding the latest regulations will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public procurement sector, especially those who have experience with local authorities. Engaging with others in the field can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your ability to deliver social value in procurement during interviews. Prepare examples of how you've successfully maximised local economic impact in previous roles, as this aligns closely with the Council's priorities.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Guildford Borough Council and Waverley’s current procurement strategies and challenges. Being knowledgeable about their specific needs will allow you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Procurement Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your relevant experience in public sector procurement and ensure you can demonstrate your understanding of The Procurement Act 2023.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Procurement Specialist role. Emphasise your strategic thinking, supplier relationship management, and any experience in leading procurement transformations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for public sector procurement and your commitment to delivering social value. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate how you can contribute to the Council's goals.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you apply through the specified channel as mentioned in the job posting. Since this recruitment is managed by an external agency, make sure to submit your application via their platform and not directly to the Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guildford Borough Council
✨Understand the Procurement Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in public sector procurement, especially The Procurement Act 2023. Being able to discuss how these changes impact the role will demonstrate your strategic thinking and commitment to staying ahead of regulatory changes.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Prepare examples of how you've designed and delivered strategic sourcing plans in previous roles. Highlight your ability to lead procurement transformation and ensure compliance while driving innovation, as this aligns closely with what the Council is looking for.
✨Emphasise Stakeholder Engagement
Be ready to discuss your experience in influencing and challenging stakeholders constructively. Provide specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex relationships to achieve procurement goals, showcasing your interpersonal skills.
✨Commit to Social Value
Articulate your understanding of social value and local economic impact. Share examples of how you've worked with local suppliers to unlock community value, as this is a key aspect of the role and demonstrates your alignment with the Council's priorities.
