At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes for software and technology suppliers, driving cost savings and value creation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company transforming its business with innovative technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and a range of lifestyle benefits.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a focus on inclusivity and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a tech-driven environment while developing your procurement skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or vendor management, with strong analytical and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Are you ready to chart your own career path? With our refreshed strategy, we’re building on our rich heritage and transforming our business to be more scalable and efficient, unlocking the capabilities needed for future success. This includes significantly investing in technology, streamlining the way we work and creating an environment where colleagues feel engaged, empowered and accountable; where they can show up, speak up and perform - because we believe in the difference our work makes.
At a glance:
- Location: Cirencester Office
- Workplace Type: Hybrid
- Employment Type: 12 month Fixed-Term Contract
- Seniority: Associate
The role: The Procurement Software Sourcing Specialist plays a key role in delivering the Technology category sourcing strategy at SJP. Reporting to the Category Manager, this is a hands‑on, operational role where you’ll manage the end‑to‑end procurement process for software and technology suppliers — from identifying sourcing opportunities through to negotiation and supplier contract management. This is an excellent 12-month FTC opportunity for someone with experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or vendor management who wants to deepen their exposure to a technology‑driven category. You’ll work closely with stakeholders across IT, Finance, Legal, and Software Asset Management to ensure procurement activity delivers commercial value, supports governance standards, and aligns with wider business objectives.
What you’ll be doing:
- Support the development and delivery of sourcing and negotiation strategies across the Technology category.
- Contribute to Category Plans alongside the Category Manager, taking ownership of implementing procurement strategies within your assigned software areas.
- Identify cost savings and value‑creation opportunities through robust spend analysis, market insight, and supplier benchmarking.
- Support RFx activity (including eAuctions), supplier evaluations, and commercial negotiations.
- Support and develop supplier relationships, monitoring performance against agreed SLAs and KPIs.
- Manage contract negotiations, renewals, and licensing agreements in partnership with the Category Manager and Legal team.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand current software usage, future needs, and demand patterns.
- Ensure all procurement activity complies with internal policies and external regulations, including data privacy and security requirements.
- Maintain accurate records of sourcing activity, contracts, savings, and performance metrics.
- Partner with the Software Asset Management team to analyse licence usage and leverage data to strengthen negotiation strategies.
Experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or vendor management. Proven ability to plan and lead negotiations that deliver measurable commercial value. Familiarity with procurement tools and systems. An understanding of Category Management principles and how to execute category plans. Strong analytical, evaluation, and research skills, with excellent attention to detail. Clear, confident communication skills with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders. Experience within Software or IT procurement, including knowledge of licensing models such as SaaS, subscription, and perpetual licences. CIPS or another relevant procurement qualification.
What's in it for you? We reward you for the work you do, whether that’s through our discretionary annual bonus scheme that reflects both personal and company performance, competitive annual leave allowance (28 days plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 5 days), or online rewards platform with a variety of discounts. We also have benefits to support whatever stage of life you are in, including:
- Competitive parental leave (26 weeks full pay)
- Private medical insurance (optional taxable benefit)
- 10% non-contributory pension (increasing with length of service)
Reasonable Adjustments: We're an equal opportunities employer and want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive for all. If you require reasonable adjustment(s) at any stage please let us know by emailing us at careers@sjp.co.uk. Research tells us that applicants (especially those from underrepresented groups) can be put off from applying for a role if they do not meet all the criteria or have been on an extended career‑break. If you think you would be a good match for this role and can demonstrate some transferable experience please apply, regardless of whether you tick every box.
What's next? If you're excited about this role and believe you have the skills and experience we're looking for, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit an application by clicking ‘apply’ below and our team will be in touch. As a business regulated by the FCA we would advise you to familiarise yourself with the conduct regulations and in particular consumer duty obligations prior to an interview with SJP.
Procurement Category Specialist (12-month FTC) employer: St. James's Place
At SJP, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters engagement and empowerment. Our hybrid workplace in Cirencester allows for flexibility while providing robust opportunities for professional growth, supported by competitive benefits such as a generous annual leave allowance and a non-contributory pension scheme. Join us to be part of a transformative journey where your contributions directly impact our success and where you can thrive in a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Specialist (12-month FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills. As a Procurement Category Specialist, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively, so role-play with a friend or mentor.
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Specialist (12-month FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Category Specialist role. Highlight relevant experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, and vendor management. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've delivered value in previous roles, especially in procurement or technology. Numbers and results speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at St. James's Place
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on procurement principles, especially in the technology category. Understand the nuances of software licensing models like SaaS and subscription. This will help you speak confidently about your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've used data analysis to identify cost savings or value creation. Bring along any relevant metrics or case studies that demonstrate your ability to deliver measurable commercial value.
✨Engage Stakeholders Like a Pro
Think about how you've collaborated with different teams in the past. Be ready to share stories that highlight your communication skills and how you've influenced stakeholders to achieve procurement goals.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Strategy
Research the company's current procurement strategy and any recent changes they've made. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and can contribute to their goals right from the start.
