At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes and build strong supplier relationships in a supportive team.
- Company: Established client in Further Education with a focus on development and progression.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector procurement while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs including Maths and English; procurement experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 36500 £ per year.
SF Partners are supporting an established client within Further Education that is looking to recruit an Assistant Category Manager on a permanent basis. This role sits within a lovely team with opportunities for progression and development.
Hours: full time Monday to Friday
Salary: £31,000-£36,500
What you’ll do:
- Run RFQs/tenders from plan to award (supplier comms, evaluation, award records).
- Source via collaborative frameworks and manage below-threshold activity to procedure.
- Support above-threshold procurement (PA23/PCR2015) including key docs and notices.
- Support contract management, KPI capture and benefits reporting (savings/social value).
- Advise stakeholders and build strong supplier relationships.
What we’re looking for:
Essential:
- GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths and English.
- CIPS Foundation (or equivalent) or commitment to work towards.
- Procurement experience running RFQs/tenders and keeping accurate records.
- Knowledge of public sector procurement and collaborative frameworks.
- Experience in contract management and/or supplier negotiation, with evidence of delivering savings/benefits.
- Strong IT skills (e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office) plus clear communication and organisation.
Desirable:
- Higher CIPS level and/or experience in contract management, negotiation and delivering savings.
- Experience working in Higher Education or wider public sector.
Procurement & Tenders Specialist — Public Sector employer: SF Partners
SF Partners is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment within the Further Education sector that prioritises employee development and progression. With a focus on collaboration and strong supplier relationships, employees benefit from a culture of teamwork and innovation, alongside competitive salaries and opportunities to enhance their skills in public sector procurement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement & Tenders Specialist — Public Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Procurement & Tenders Specialist role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your procurement knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with RFQs and tenders, and how you've successfully managed supplier relationships. We want to see that you can talk the talk and walk the walk!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your achievements in contract management and savings delivery. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you bring to the table and set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement & Tenders Specialist — Public Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Procurement & Tenders Specialist. Highlight your relevant experience with RFQs and tenders, and don’t forget to mention any public sector procurement knowledge you have!
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 skills align with the job. Be sure to mention your commitment to CIPS and any relevant achievements.
Showcase Your IT Skills:Since strong IT skills are essential for this role, make sure to highlight your experience with e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office in both your CV and cover letter. We want to see that you’re tech-savvy!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Partners
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of public sector procurement and collaborative frameworks. Be ready to discuss your experience with RFQs and tenders, as well as any specific examples where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or delivered savings.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves advising stakeholders and building strong supplier relationships, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, whether it’s through written reports or verbal presentations.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific procurement scenarios. Think about past experiences where you’ve had to negotiate contracts or manage KPIs, and be prepared to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Highlight Your IT Proficiency
With strong IT skills being essential, make sure you’re familiar with e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office. You might be asked about your experience with these tools, so have some examples ready that showcase how you’ve used them to streamline processes or improve efficiency.
