At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategy to drive value and strengthen supplier partnerships.
- Company: ODS, a purpose-driven organisation focused on community impact.
- Benefits: Generous leave, subsidised leisure memberships, and employee support programmes.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement while making a positive community impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic procurement and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic procurement leader who can deliver commercial value while making a positive impact on your community? At ODS, we believe in balancing profit with purpose. We're dedicated to delivering outstanding services to our commercial clients and the residents of Oxford.
As our Head of Procurement, you'll lead the development and delivery of a modern procurement strategy that drives value, strengthens supplier partnerships, reduces risk, and supports sustainable business growth across the organisation.
Perks of joining us at ODS:
- Generous 29 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays (increasing to 33 days after 5 years)
- Access to subsidised leisure memberships
- Employee Assistance Programme
If you're ready to shape the future of procurement within a purpose-driven organisation and play a key role in delivering commercial excellence, we'd love to hear from you!
Closing Date for applications: 2nd August 2026
Please Note: All vacancies close at midnight on the stated closing date. We reserve the right to interview applicants who meet the essential criteria before the closing date, and the role may close earlier than advertised if suitable candidates are identified so early applications are encouraged.
Head of Procurement in Oxford employer: ODS
At ODS, we pride ourselves on being a purpose-driven employer that fosters creativity and collaboration. As a Social Media Strategist & Content Producer, you'll enjoy a vibrant work culture that encourages professional growth through hands-on experience and teamwork across various sites. With opportunities to engage with local communities and contribute to impactful campaigns, ODS offers a rewarding environment for those looking to make a difference in the digital landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement in Oxford
✨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 ODS.
✨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 Head of Procurement in Oxford
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 ODS:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to ODS. 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 ODS.
How to prepare for a job interview at ODS
✨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 ODS!
✨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 ODS. 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 ODS's culture.
