At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement and contract management to support Oundle School's mission.
- Company: Oundle School, a prestigious independent educational institution.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, flexible schedule, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to excellence in education.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education while developing your commercial skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and supplier management is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
The purpose of this role is to provide a high-quality procurement, commercial and contract management service to Oundle School and its subsidiaries and to provide commercial support to the Director of Finance, the Bursar and the wider Leadership Team.
Working within the Finance team, you will report to the Director of Finance and be responsible for leading procurement, supplier management and commercial processes, adapting, improving, and ensuring best practice is always applied and being accountable for supplier relationships from the outset of the decision to tender, tender invite through to handover, as BAU (to include tender management, contract award, mobilisation and sign-off to BAU).
Working weeks: 52 weeks per year. Hours of work: Part-time, 20-24 hours per week. The specific days and start and finish times can be discussed at the interview stage.
The Schools Oundle and Laxton Junior Schools have long been associated with the very best of modern independent education, especially boarding. The Schools take seriously their responsibility to pupils so that they can emerge as decent, open-minded adults; ambitious about what they can go on to achieve and contribute. Over 1,400 pupils are on roll at the School, of whom 840 are full boarders. Academic results are steadfastly excellent. A team of around 800 staff, both academic and support, ensure an education of the highest standard is in place across the Schools, with the efforts of the whole team focused on this fundamental aim.
Living in Oundle, we are fortunate in our location at the heart of a beautiful market town. School and town are part of the same community, and our pupils take their place within this community, not isolated from it. The town has a spirited cultural life, with an annual international festival, literature festival, and frequent performances of nationally touring shows at the School's Stahl Theatre.
If you have any questions about the role, please email: opportunities@oundleschool.org.uk or call: 01832 277193.
Closing date: 9.00am on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. Interview date: w/c 5 October 2026.
Safeguarding Statement: Oundle School and Laxton Junior School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Purchasing and Contracts Manager in Oundle employer: Oundle School
At Laxton Junior School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where our Griffin Club Assistants play a vital role in shaping the lives of our children. With a strong emphasis on professional development and a supportive community of dedicated staff, we offer meaningful opportunities for growth while ensuring a fulfilling work-life balance during term time. Join us in making a positive impact in the lives of young learners in a school that values kindness, collaboration, and high expectations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing and Contracts Manager in Oundle
✨Dive into the Procurement Community
Join online forums and local groups focused on procurement. Websites like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) have great communities and resources. Connecting with professionals through these channels can lead to part-time opportunities with companies like Oundle School.
✨Networking with a Twist
Don’t just stick to the usual networking events; look for niche procurement workshops or seminars in your area. These are goldmines for part-time roles as they often attract companies looking for talent like us to fill in gaps on short or flexible contracts.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Build a mini portfolio of your procurement projects or experiences. Even if it's part-time, demonstrating your understanding of cost analysis, supplier negotiations, or inventory management can really set you apart when going for a role at Oundle School.
✨Check Out Part-Time Job Boards
Keep an eye on job boards that focus specifically on part-time positions in procurement. Websites like Indeed or local classifieds often have hidden gems, so make it a habit to check them out daily for roles that intrigue you, including at Oundle School.
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing and Contracts Manager in Oundle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Negotiation Skills:In procurement, your negotiation skills are key! Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV that shows you’ve successfully worked with suppliers or managed vendor relationships. This might be through previous roles or even projects during your studies—don't hold back!
Understand the Importance of Detail:Being part-time in procurement means you'll need to hit the ground running. Emphasise your detail-oriented approach in your application. Mention any experience with data analysis or reporting as procurement often involves managing contracts and evaluating suppliers based on various KPIs.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Procurement:Your cover letter should illustrate your interest in the procurement field and your ability to learn. Discuss why you're excited about the part-time role at Oundle School and how it fits with your career goals. This is your chance to connect your past experiences with what you hope to achieve in procurement!
Highlight Your Availability:Since this is a part-time position, be clear about your availability in your application. Make it easy for Oundle School to see when you can work and how you can support their purchasing needs. This will show that you’re not only enthusiastic but also organised and ready to jump in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oundle School
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Make sure you brush up on key procurement concepts and techniques. Understand things like supplier negotiation, cost-benefit analyses, and the importance of maintaining good relationships with vendors. This foundational knowledge will demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role at Oundle School.
✨Be Ready for Analytical Questions
Procurement roles often involve analysing data to make informed purchasing decisions. Prepare to face some technical questions or case studies that assess your analytical skills. Think through a few scenarios where you've had to use data effectively—this will show off your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Flexibility and Commitment
As it's a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can manage your time efficiently. Highlight any experiences that demonstrate your ability to balance multiple responsibilities or adjust to shifting priorities, which is super valuable in fast-paced environments like Oundle School.
✨Pitch Relevant Experiences
Tailor your previous experiences to the procurement field. Have examples ready that showcase your skills in negotiation, vendor management, or even budgeting if applicable. This isn’t just about what you've done but how those experiences make you a great fit for the part-time role at Oundle School.
