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- Tasks: Lead procurement projects and support sustainable strategies for community impact.
- Company: Suffolk County Council, reimagining local government for a better future.
- Benefits: Up to 29 days leave, competitive pension, flexible working, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your career in procurement.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualification or equivalent experience, strong communication, and project management skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with a collaborative spirit and excellent growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 44000 £ per year.
At Suffolk County Council, we’re reimagining what local government can achieve. As a Procurement Business Partner, you’ll play a vital role in supporting smarter, more sustainable procurement strategies that deliver real value to our communities and the environment.
Location: Endeavour House, Ipswich IP1 2BX – Hybrid working
Salary: £40,777 – £47,054 per annum (pro rata for part time)
Hours: 37 hours per week – flexible working options available
Contract: Permanent
Responsibilities:
- Lead and support the delivery of procurement projects, planning and implementing continual improvement.
- Provide procurement advice and practical support to stakeholders, helping them achieve their goals while supporting council’s wider objectives.
- Build partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor.
- Lead tenders and negotiations, ensuring compliance with UK procurement legislation and council’s Procurement Rules.
- Provide input on business cases and reports to senior officers and council members.
- Give general advice on contract management, ensuring contracts are managed in line with council’s Contract Management Standards.
- Advise on social value, ensuring procurement activities create positive outcomes for Suffolk’s communities.
- Review and triage procurement requests, liaising with stakeholders to gather necessary information.
Qualifications:
- Professional procurement/commissioning qualification (CIPS) or equivalent experience.
- Good interpersonal, persuasive, and negotiating skills.
- Appreciation of working within a large, complex political organisation, ideally within the public sector.
- Project management and planning skills.
- Collaborative spirit and drive for continuous improvement.
- Proficient IT skills including e‑tendering systems, MS Excel, Word and Teams/SharePoint.
- Strong communication skills – verbal, written and presentation.
- Positive ‘can do’ approach to work, willingness to learn and innovate.
Benefits:
- Up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro‑rata) plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days.
- Membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits.
- Performance‑related annual pay progression, plus annual cost‑of‑living pay increase.
- Training and encouragement to broaden knowledge.
- Diverse and active staff networks.
- Flexible working options – right to request from first day.
Contact: For more information please contact Juliette Orsler or Neil Holland at 01473 264852 or via email: juliette.orsler@suffolk.gov.uk / neil.holland@suffolk.gov.uk.
Application Process:
- Step 1 – Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
- Step 2 – Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
- Step 3 – Upload a CV (without name and personal details). Without a CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in PDF or MS Word format.
Closing date: 11:30 pm, 30 November 2025.
Interview dates: 8 and 9 December 2025.
Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Contact Detail:
Suffolk Jobs Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at Suffolk County Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on what they’re really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Business Partner, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead tenders and negotiations. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Suffolk County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Business Partner in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you dive into your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info on what we’re looking for in a Procurement Business Partner, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications.
Tailor Your CV: When you upload your CV, make it relevant to the role! Highlight your experience in procurement, project management, and any qualifications like CIPS. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role and how you can contribute to our goals. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Follow the Application Process: Make sure you follow our application steps carefully. Click ‘Apply Now’, upload your CV (remember, no personal details!), and ensure all documents are in PDF or MS Word format. We can’t wait to see your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around UK legislation and council rules. Being able to discuss specific strategies or examples of how you've successfully led procurement projects will show that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Show Off Your Interpersonal Skills
As a Procurement Business Partner, you'll need to build strong relationships with stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past, and be ready to demonstrate your persuasive and negotiating skills during the interview.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Social Value
Suffolk County Council is focused on creating positive outcomes for communities. Think about how your previous procurement activities have contributed to social value and be prepared to share these insights. This will highlight your alignment with their objectives.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the council's procurement strategies and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
