At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver procurement activities for diverse projects at Milton Keynes Council.
- Company: Milton Keynes Council, a dynamic local authority with a focus on community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and the chance to influence local services.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy varied projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public sector procurement while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and knowledge of relevant legislation required.
**Client:** Milton Keynes Council
**Location:** Hybrid - 1 day per week onsite (Tuesdays, Head Office)
**Contract:** 3 months initially
**Rate:** £325 PAYE / £450 Umbrella per day
### The Opportunity
We are currently recruiting for an **Interim Procurement Manager** to join **Milton Keynes Council** on an initial 3-month contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and deliver compliant, value-driven procurement activities across a diverse project portfolio. You'll play a key role in supporting service areas to achieve their objectives by delivering high-quality procurement outcomes, ensuring compliance with the **Procurement Act 2023 (PA23)** and **PCR 2015**, while driving social value, effective risk management, and commercial sustainability. Projects will typically range from **£250k to £2m**, and you may join procurements at any stage - from initial scoping through to contract award.
### Key Responsibilities
- Procurement Delivery
- Lead end-to-end procurement processes across goods, services, and works contracts
- Develop sourcing strategies aligned to council priorities
- Prepare and manage tender documentation, ensuring compliance and clarity
- Evaluate tenders and support moderation processes to ensure fair and transparent outcomes
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as a trusted advisor to internal service areas, providing procurement expertise
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders and suppliers
- Lead or support market engagement activities, including supplier events and soft market testing
- Compliance & Governance
- Ensure all procurement activity complies with **PA23, PCR 2015**, and internal governance frameworks
- Maintain clear audit trails and accurate procurement records
- Support reporting requirements, including pipelines, notices, and decision documentation
### About You
- Strong experience in **public sector procurement** (local authority preferred)
- In-depth knowledge of **Procurement Act 2023 (PA23)** and/or **PCR 2015**
- Proven track record delivering full end-to-end tenders (above threshold)
- Confident managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
- Strong written communication (tender documentation, reports, feedback)
- MCIPS qualified or working towards (minimum Level 4 desirable)
- Flexible, adaptable and able to pick up projects at varying stages
### What's on Offer
- Hybrid working - just **1 day per week onsite**
- Varied procurement portfolio across multiple categories
- Opportunity to make an immediate impact within a local authority setting
Procurement & Business Services Procurement Manager Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Up to £450 / day employer: Oaksec
Milton Keynes Council is an exceptional employer that values innovation and community impact, offering a unique opportunity for the Interim Procurement Manager to lead diverse procurement projects while enjoying a hybrid work model. With a strong focus on compliance and social value, employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions in a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. The council's commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement ensures that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement & Business Services Procurement Manager Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Up to £450 / day
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who have experience with local authorities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the Procurement Act 2023 and PCR 2015. We want you to be able to discuss how you’ve applied these regulations in past roles. Show them you’re not just familiar, but that you can navigate these laws like a seasoned pro!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications all in one place.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement & Business Services Procurement Manager Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Up to £450 / day
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Interim Procurement Manager role. Highlight your experience in public sector procurement and your knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and PCR 2015. We want to see how your skills align with what Milton Keynes Council is looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage end-to-end procurement processes. Use numbers and examples to illustrate your impact, like successful projects or savings achieved. This helps us see the value you can bring!
Keep It Clear and Concise:Your written application should be easy to read and straight to the point. Avoid jargon and keep your language professional yet approachable. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out without unnecessary fluff!
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 straightforward – just follow the prompts and you’ll be good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oaksec
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the **Procurement Act 2023 (PA23)** and **PCR 2015** before your interview. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed end-to-end procurement processes in the past. Highlight specific projects, their budgets, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the diverse project portfolio they mentioned.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to share strategies you’ve used to engage and influence them effectively. This is crucial for the role, so showing your interpersonal skills will be a big plus.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about their procurement strategies or how they measure success in their projects. It shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
