At a Glance
- Tasks: Source suppliers, analyse performance data, and support sustainable procurement practices.
- Company: Join Scotland Excel, a leading non-profit in public sector procurement.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Access to training opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local communities through effective procurement.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and a team player attitude required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
Scotland Excel is the national centre of procurement expertise for the local government sector in Scotland. Due to continued growth in demand and an internal promotion, we are seeking two Assistant Procurement Specialists to join our Contract Delivery team.
You will support the delivery of national collaborative frameworks, helping local authorities achieve best value while ensuring compliance with relevant procurement legislation and policies.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the delivery and management of Scotland Excel frameworks in line with approved procurement processes
- Assist with supplier engagement activities, including surveys, site visits, and negotiations
- Monitor supplier and contract performance, identifying risks and supporting mitigation actions
- Prepare reports and analysis to support contract management and performance monitoring
- Support the preparation, issue and evaluation of tender documentation
- Maintain accurate contract data and update relevant publications
- Liaise with Customer Account Managers to ensure effective contract delivery and resolve issues
- Contribute to sustainable procurement practices and continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
- HNC, SVQ Level 3 in a business-related subject, or equivalent experience
- Willingness to work towards Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) membership (or equivalent)
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical, organisational and communication skills
- Ability to engage effectively with colleagues, customers and suppliers
- Flexible, proactive approach with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong focus on customer service and continuous improvement
Experience
- Experience in procurement, local authority, or a related environment
- Experience of stakeholder, customer and supplier engagement
- Ability to analyse data and contribute to performance monitoring
- Awareness of e-procurement systems and tools
- Financial or budgetary awareness (desirable)
You will play a key role in supporting collaborative procurement across Scotland, contributing to efficient, effective and sustainable public sector services.
The following values are at the heart of everything we do at Scotland Excel and the successful candidate will be expected the demonstrate these daily:
- Professional
- Respectful
- Courageous
- Integrity
About Scotland Excel
Scotland Excel is an award-winning Centre of Procurement Expertise providing a wide range of procurement, commissioning, consultancy, and learning and development services for our members.
Since 2008, we have helped to establish procurement as an effective driver for local and national economic growth and wellbeing. Our £2bn portfolio of collaborative contracts supports the delivery of savings, social value, community benefits, fair work practices and environmental policy, and covers a wide range of public services including construction, roads, transport, environment, corporate and education.
Scotland Excel also develops and manages arrangements which support the commissioning of care services for children and adults. Our national care contracts are developed in partnership with care professionals, including care providers, to support person-centred outcomes embedded within national policy.
We also provide procurement and consultancy services to help our members get the most from their procurement resources, ranging from ad-hoc tendering support through to transformation programmes and strategic procurement partnerships.
The Scotland Excel Academy offers applied learning programmes leading to accredited qualifications in procurement, leadership and management, coaching and mentoring, project management and business analysis, as well as short courses and workshops.
Scotland Excel is a non-profit organisation working with members from across the public sector including local authorities, health and social care partnerships, housing associations, and other public and third sector organisations.
As well as a competitive salary, you will have:
- Access to a defined benefits pension with Strathclyde Pension Fund. Current combined contribution of employee and employer varies depending on earnings but can be between 24-32%
- A generous holiday allowance of 33 days including public holidays. This increases on a sliding scale up to an additional ten days subject to length of service
- Flexible working opportunities including hybrid working and a nine-day fortnight
- Access to staff discounts through Vivup employee benefit platform
- Time off during office closure over Christmas and New Year (included in holiday allowance)
- Our commitment to employee engagement including regular corporate and team events as recently recognised by us retaining Gold Investors In People Award
- A wealth of training opportunities including from our own award-winning Academy
How to apply
Scotland Excel celebrates diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.
Candidates with disabilities are guaranteed an interview providing they meet the essential requirements for the position. If you have a disability, please make us aware when submitting your application.
All applicants will be asked to provide proof of their right to work in the UK, and any offer of employment will be conditional upon verifying documentary evidence before employment commences.
To be considered for this post please click apply to be redirected to our website.
Assistant Procurement Specialist in Paisley employer: Scotland Excel
Scotland Excel is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises professional growth and employee engagement. With a generous holiday allowance, flexible working options, and access to our award-winning Academy for continuous learning, we empower our team members to thrive while making a meaningful impact in public sector procurement across Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Procurement Specialist in Paisley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Scotland Excel and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your analytical skills and how they relate to procurement. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows you're engaged and keen to learn more about the role and the team dynamics. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if it's the right fit for you too!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and keep you fresh in their minds as they make their decision. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Procurement Specialist in Paisley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Assistant Procurement Specialist role. Highlight any relevant procurement experience and analytical skills to show us you're the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about procurement and how your values align with Scotland Excel's. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since strong analytical skills are key for this role, include examples of how you've used data to make decisions or improve processes in your previous roles. We want to see your problem-solving prowess!
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 the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotland Excel
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your procurement knowledge. Understand key concepts like supplier assessment, tender documentation, and sustainable practices. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also have a solid grasp of what it entails.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since strong analytical skills are crucial for this position, prepare to discuss examples from your past experiences where you've successfully analysed data or improved processes. Be ready to explain how your findings led to better decision-making.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Scotland Excel values teamwork, so be prepared to share instances where you've worked effectively within a team. Highlight your flexibility and how you’ve contributed to collaborative projects, especially in a procurement context.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Scotland Excel's core values: Professionalism, Respect, Courage, and Integrity. Think of examples from your experience that demonstrate these values in action, as they will be looking for candidates who embody them.
