At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage high-value contracts for an educational trust.
- Company: Join Lionheart Educational Trust, a forward-thinking and values-driven organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and health care schemes.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and diverse staff networks.
- Why this job: Shape procurement governance while making a real impact in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement management and strong understanding of public sector governance required.
The predicted salary is between 55443 - 61116 £ per year.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: £55,443 to £61,116
Posted: 22nd May 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Expires: 12th June 2026 09:00 AM
About the Role
Lionheart Educational Trust is seeking to appoint a strategic and experienced Head of Procurement to manage our procurement function. This pivotal role ensures compliance with the Procurement Act 2023, delivers value for money, providing governance, advice and guidance to colleagues engaging in procurement activity.
Job Purpose
To provide contract management advice to the organisation, ensuring that arrangements are in place for effective contract management. To manage high value/high importance contracts as required to ensure that Lionheart Educational Trust meets its contractual obligations to the Supplier, identify and manage risks that may arise through the operation of the contract and implements robust financial and operational controls. To ensure that we remain compliant with the Procurement Act 2023 ensuring transparency in purchasing decisions at all times.
Key Responsibilities
- The role will report to the Chief Financial Officer.
- Maintain an up-to-date contract register and procurement activity plan.
- Provide expert advice on procurement and contract management to colleagues.
- Ensure compliance with internal delegation levels and public sector spending rules.
- Implement competitive procurement procedures aligned with the Trust's financial framework.
- Develop and maintain internal guidance and training materials.
- Manage relationships with suppliers and legal advisors.
- Ensure compliance with UK legislation, public body requirements, and government frameworks.
- Actively manage key corporate contracts and procurement risks.
- Liaise with the Department for Education on procurement matters.
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience in leading or working in a management capacity within a procurement function in an organisation of similar or greater size and complexity to Lionheart Educational Trust.
- Strong understanding of the Procurement Act 2023 and public sector governance.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to develop and implement effective procurement policies and systems.
- Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to risk and compliance.
- Be part of a forward-thinking and values-driven educational trust.
- Play a key role in shaping procurement strategy and governance.
- Work in a collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing Trust with staff benefits including 15.5% employer pension contribution, Health Care/Salary Sacrifice Schemes for purchasing bikes, electrical equipment, gym memberships, parking and more!
Close Date: Friday 12th June 2026 at 9am
Interview Date: To be confirmed
This post is eligible for a DBS check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (i.e. it involves certain activities in relation to children and/or adults) and is defined as regulated activity under Part 1 of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. This post is designated as a regulated activity and requires enhanced criminal records check for a regulated activity (including a barred list check). We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks, therefore, all posts are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.
The Trust strives to be a diverse and inclusive place where all staff have a seat at the table: a seat to be free, a seat to inspire, a seat to challenge and a seat to succeed. We currently have staff networks for staff who are Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer + (LGBTQ+), staff who would describe their background as working class and staff with a disability.
Safeguarding Statement
Lionheart Educational Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education we will do online checks for anyone who is shortlisted.
Head of Procurement in Leicester employer: Lionheart Teach
Lionheart Educational Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff while fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture. With a generous benefits package including a 15.5% employer pension contribution and various health and wellness schemes, employees are supported in both their personal and professional lives. This role offers the opportunity to shape procurement strategy within a forward-thinking educational environment in Leicester, making it a rewarding place to contribute to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement in Leicester
✨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 company and its procurement strategies. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their needs and how you can add value right from the start.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Head of Procurement, you’ll need to showcase your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Procurement in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in procurement and compliance with the Procurement Act 2023. We want to see how your skills align with our needs at Lionheart Educational Trust!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, emphasise your ability to think strategically about procurement. Share examples of how you've developed effective policies or managed risks in previous roles. This will help us see your proactive approach!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to your achievements and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Lionheart Educational Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lionheart Teach
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and any relevant public sector governance. Being able to discuss how this legislation impacts procurement decisions will show that you're not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them strategically.
✨Showcase Your Contract Management Skills
Prepare examples of high-value contracts you've managed in the past. Be ready to discuss how you ensured compliance and delivered value for money. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you would explain complex procurement processes to colleagues who may not have a procurement background.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss your approach to developing and implementing procurement policies. Think about how you can align procurement strategies with the Trust's financial framework and how you would proactively manage risks. This will highlight your strategic mindset and readiness to contribute to the organisation's goals.
