At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-quality procurement activities to support our academies and make a real impact.
- Company: Join the Harris Federation, a leader in social mobility and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and generous leave policies.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a culture of collaboration await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team transforming lives through education.
- Qualifications: Five years in public sector procurement with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Are you a driven procurement professional ready to make a real impact across a dynamic and growing Federation? We are seeking a highly capable Procurement and Contracts Manager to lead and deliver compliant, high‑quality procurement activity that supports our academies to thrive.
WORKING WITH US
The founder and sponsor of the Harris Federation, Lord Harris of Peckham, opened our first school in 1990. We have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of pupils will go on to achieve. We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, and employ over 5,000 staff across our academies and head office. With the majority of our academies located in areas of high socioeconomic disadvantage, a high-quality education is key to the futures of the pupils we serve. As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff. Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contribution that all of our community make. We continue to be proactive in uplifting and supporting all voices at Harris.
MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
You will play a key operational role in delivering compliant, high‑quality procurement activity across the Federation. With a focus on strategic sourcing & tendering, you will focus on, lead and manage end‑to‑end procurement exercises, including regulated FTS tenders and framework‑based awards, maintain oversight of the procurement pipeline, and actively support academies in selecting and using compliant procurement routes. The role has a strong emphasis on forward planning, market engagement, regulatory compliance, and practical academy support to reduce risk and avoid reactive or non‑compliant procurement activity.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Public sector experience (at least five years in a similar role)
- Proven use of public sector frameworks and DPSs
- Ability to advise stakeholders on compliant procurement routes
- Solid understanding of framework structures, call‑offs, and mini‑competitions
- Strong knowledge of public procurement regulations and best practice
- Experience supporting academies or devolved organisations
- Demonstrated contract management experience
- Analytical skills and ability to interpret data
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
- Strong IT skills, including MS Office and procurement systems
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level. You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:
- Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
- Annual performance and loyalty bonus
- Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
- 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
- Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
- Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
- Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
- Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
- 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
- Interest‑free ICT and season ticket loans
For most non‑teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Safeguarding Notice: The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed. The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.
Procurement and Contracts Manager in Croydon employer: Harris Federation
At the Harris Federation, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions professional growth and a collaborative work culture. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every staff member is valued, while our extensive benefits package, including generous leave, pension contributions, and flexible working arrangements, supports a healthy work-life balance. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people across London and Essex, as we continue to transform educational opportunities for disadvantaged communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement and Contracts Manager in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Harris Federation and its values. Show us that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about making a difference in education and social mobility.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your public sector experience and procurement skills can directly benefit our academies. Tailor your examples to highlight your ability to manage compliant procurement routes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the Harris Federation.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Contracts Manager in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public sector procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the Procurement and Contracts Manager role.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've made an impact in previous roles, especially in areas like strategic sourcing and contract management.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Federation
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public procurement regulations and best practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific frameworks and DPSs relevant to the role, as well as any recent changes in legislation that could impact procurement activities.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively engaged with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and ability to advise on compliant procurement routes, as this will be crucial for the position.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Be ready to discuss how you've used data analysis to inform procurement decisions. Think of specific instances where your analytical skills led to successful outcomes, especially in managing contracts or evaluating suppliers.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
The Harris Federation values collaboration, so come prepared to talk about how you've worked in teams to achieve procurement goals. Share experiences that showcase your ability to support academies and manage multiple priorities effectively.
