At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement initiatives and manage contracts to drive efficiency and compliance.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in the public sector focused on impactful procurement strategies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for continuous improvement and career growth in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while working with senior managers and stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Procurement & Contract Manager to join our team and play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering our procurement strategy. Working closely with the Head of Procurement, you will lead on key procurement initiatives across Estates and Facilities Management, including capital works projects and supplier management. This is a hands-on and varied role within a small, collaborative team, where your expertise in procurement and contract management will drive value, efficiency, and compliance. You will work closely with senior managers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure best practice procurement processes, cost savings, and high-quality outcomes. If you are forward-thinking, adaptable, and passionate about continuous improvement, this role offers an exciting opportunity to make a real impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Head of Procurement in delivering the procurement strategy, best practices, tools, and guidance aligned to business and operational needs.
- Manage formal tendering and purchasing for Estates and Facilities Management, including capital works projects.
- Expand and maintain the Preferred Supplier List.
- Lead on procurement initiatives, ensuring value for money, cost savings, and exceptional customer service.
- Oversee and manage contract performance, ensuring compliance with SLAs and KPIs.
- Collaborate effectively with senior managers and external contractors.
- Contribute to continuous improvement by identifying new ways of working and innovative procurement solutions.
- Undertake benchmarking, financial and spend analysis, and due diligence checks.
- Manage end-to-end procurement processes, including ITTs.
- Provide hands-on support across various projects within a small team environment.
Key Requirements:
- Membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (MCIPS) or working towards qualification.
- Strong experience in public sector procurement and contract management (education sector experience desirable but not essential).
- Solid understanding of the upcoming Procurement Act 2024.
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and experience with e-Tendering platforms (e.g., MyTender).
- Strong financial and analytical skills, with the ability to conduct benchmarking and spend analysis.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage senior leaders and contractors.
- Forward-thinking, open, and positive approach with the ability to work independently.
- Flexible, hands-on attitude with the ability to support wider team projects when required.
Procurement & Contracts Lead - Public Sector employer: Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust
Join a dynamic and collaborative team as a Procurement & Contracts Lead in the public sector, where your expertise will directly influence procurement strategies and drive efficiency. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous improvement and professional growth, offering you the chance to make a meaningful impact while working closely with senior managers and stakeholders. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a unique opportunity to engage in diverse projects that enhance community services and deliver exceptional value.
Contact Details:
Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement & Contracts Lead - Public Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement and public sector space. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s procurement strategy and recent projects. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your achievements in procurement and contract management clearly and concisely.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and helps us keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement & Contracts Lead - Public Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your procurement and contract management expertise, especially in public sector roles, to show us you're the right fit for the team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about procurement and how you can contribute to our strategy. Share specific examples of past successes that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and any e-Tendering platforms you've used. We want to see how your technical skills can help us achieve our procurement goals.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a real impact!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of public sector procurement and the upcoming Procurement Act 2024. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities, especially around managing tenders and supplier relationships.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your financial and analytical skills. Bring examples of past benchmarking or spend analysis you've conducted, and be ready to explain how these have led to cost savings or improved procurement processes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you've successfully collaborated with senior managers and external contractors in the past. Be prepared to share specific examples that highlight your communication skills and ability to manage stakeholder expectations.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
This role is all about driving value and efficiency, so come armed with ideas for innovative procurement solutions. Discuss any previous experiences where you've identified new ways of working or contributed to process improvements.
