At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Procurement Co-ordinator, focusing on client relations and contract management.
- Company: Scotland Excel is a leading non-profit supporting local authorities with procurement expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and access to a defined benefits pension.
- Other info: We welcome applications from all backgrounds and guarantee interviews for candidates with disabilities.
- Why this job: Be part of an award-winning organisation making a real impact in public services.
- Qualifications: HND in a business-related subject and experience in public procurement required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Grade: 8 Ref: 116352
Scotland Excel was established as the Centre of Procurement Expertise for the local government sector in 2008. We are a leading non-profit organisation servicing Scotland’s 32 local authority and over 175 associate members from across the public and third sector. We pride ourselves on being a Centre of Procurement Excellence and this is a great opportunity to join our award-winning organisation.
Scotland Excel continues to grow at pace and, due to an internal promotion, we are looking for aProcurement Co-ordinatorto join our Flexible Procurement team. As we continue to build this team, we are offering afixed-term contracts for two years.
Over five successful years, the Flexible Procurement Services team has achieved 135 awarded contracts, representing a total contract value of £39m. Applicants should be aware of the unique working environment within the Flexible Procurement Services team. While the core business of Scotland Excel is collaborative at the national level for the 32 Scottish local authorities (councils) and our member organisations, this team works on behalf of our member organisations delivering local contracts for use by individual public bodies. As such, this is a client-facing position with a focus on customer relations and client satisfaction. The job description for this role is generic but the key tasks for this particular post are as listed below.
In this role you will:
- be client-facing with a focus on customer relations and client satisfaction
- lead, advise and co-ordinate preparatory work for Category C contracts delivering tender exercises for our member organisations
- be responsible for realising the benefits of collaborative procurement for Category C goods and services
- assist in implementing procurement strategies to deliver team targets and goals
- liaise with and co-ordinate feedback from key stakeholders
- monitor developments in new procurement practices and techniques, including e-technologies
- provide a wide range of support to the team including on the job training
- be responsible for the co-ordination, instruction, advising and guidance of team members
- deputise for the Senior Procurement Specialist as and when required
- support the User Intelligence Groups\'process to ensure efficiency, effectiveness and value delivered for local authorities
- ensure full compliance with statutory provisions, legislation, policies, procedures and processes e.g. health and safety
- support the delivery of Category C contract recommendations through the development of consistent and robust assessments, in accordance with procurement principles
- undertake a range of research and analysis duties
We are looking for someone who:
- is able to execute quick quotes on PCS whilst still delivering to a high standard
- is well-versed in conducting market research and capable of identifying national frameworks for use
- is able to independently manage call-offs under national frameworks
- is capable of managing the evaluation and award process of a tender
- has a clear understanding of the various award letters, when to apply each and the details required to construct them
- has anHND in a business-related subject or equivalent, either working towards or achieved Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) or equivalent
- is experienced in the public procurement function from initiation through to award
- is knowledgeable in sustainable procurement policy and practice in the delivery of contracts
- has previously prepared stakeholder assessments for input to managing/developing contract solutions to ensure effective service delivery
- has the ability to assess financial documentation, identifying liabilities, risks and issues
More about Scotland Excel
Scotland Excel provides a wide range of procurement, commissioning, consultancy, and learning and development services for our 175 members which is growing on a monthly basis. We are also 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.
What we can offer you
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
You can find out what makes Scotland Excel an employer of choice and what benefits we can offer you by visiting https://home.scotland-excel.org.uk/work-for-us/
How to apply
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, whether it is public or private sector. Secondment opportunities may also be available subject to agreement from your current employer and Scotland Excel. Applications are also welcome from candidates with disabilities and guarantee an interview to those candidates who meet the essential requirements for the position.If you have a disability, please make us aware of it in the Candidate Information Form.
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. Further information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work
To apply, click the “apply now” button and follow the instructions to submit your CV.
You must also download the attachedCandidate Information Formcomplete and email it to recruitment@scotland-excel.org.uk. Only applicants who submit both a CV and Candidate Information Form will be considered for interview.
#J-18808-LjbffrProcurement Co-ordinator (Flexible Procurement Services) 2 Year Fixed-Term Contract employer: Scotland Excel
Scotland Excel is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work culture that prioritises employee engagement and professional development. With a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working options, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment dedicated to public service and community benefits. The organisation's commitment to training and its Gold Investors In People Award further highlight its dedication to fostering growth and well-being among its staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Co-ordinator (Flexible Procurement Services) 2 Year Fixed-Term Contract
✨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 Scotland Excel.
✨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 Procurement Co-ordinator (Flexible Procurement Services) 2 Year Fixed-Term Contract
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 Scotland Excel:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Scotland Excel. 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 Scotland Excel.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotland Excel
✨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 Scotland Excel!
✨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 Scotland Excel. 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 Scotland Excel's culture.