At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement and payment processes while managing supplier relationships and contracts.
- Company: Growing education organisation with a focus on improvement and value.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with opportunities for professional development and impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and drive continuous improvement in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Shape procurement processes and make a real difference in the education sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, supplier management, and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Procurement & Payments Manager to join a growing education organisation and take responsibility for its procurement, supplier, contract and payment functions. This is a newly developed position offering considerable scope to improve processes, strengthen supplier management and identify opportunities to achieve better value for money.
The Role
- Lead procurement and payment processes across the organisation
- Manage supplier relationships and contract administration
- Review expenditure and identify cost-saving opportunities
- Ensure strong financial controls and procurement compliance
- Develop more effective procurement processes and procedures
- Support budget holders with procurement planning
- Lead and develop a small team
- Drive continuous improvement across purchasing and supplier management
The Ideal Candidate
You will have a strong background in procurement, purchasing, supplier management, contracts or payments, combined with good commercial and financial awareness. You should be confident analysing spend, negotiating and managing supplier relationships, challenging existing ways of working and influencing senior stakeholders. Previous experience within education, the public sector or a regulated environment would be advantageous, although candidates from other sectors with strong transferable procurement experience are encouraged to apply.
This is a permanent, full-time opportunity with an ASAP start and the chance to play a significant role in shaping and developing an important organisational function.
Procurement & Payments Manager employer: Harris Lee
Harris Lee Recruitment offers a rewarding opportunity for SEN Support Specialists in Uxbridge, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with complex needs. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and personal growth, providing ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your skills. Join us in a role that not only values your contributions but also prioritises your well-being and professional advancement in a nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement & Payments Manager
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Harris Lee.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement & Payments Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Harris Lee:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Harris Lee. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Harris Lee.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Lee
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Harris Lee!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Harris Lee. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Harris Lee's culture.
