At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes and develop sourcing strategies to support community services.
- Company: Join Surrey Heath Borough Council, dedicated to community engagement and excellent service.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension scheme, free parking, and subsidised gym membership.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for career development await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a significant local government transformation and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Previous Local Government procurement experience is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join Surrey Heath Borough Council and be part of an organisation committed to delivery through meaningful community engagement and excellent customer service. We have a friendly and supportive staff culture with people who want to help make a real difference in our community for everyone that lives and works here. We embrace a culture of innovation and creativity welcoming new ideas. We support a work life balance with options for flexible and hybrid working.
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) From April 2027, Surrey Heath Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, as part of a major local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities: East Surrey and West Surrey. West Surrey will cover the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking. While the exact shape of the new West Surrey Council beyond 2027 is still being developed, joining us now means becoming part of an organisation where collaboration thrives and where your contribution will directly influence one of the most significant local government transformations in decades. You’ll gain valuable experience, play an active role in shaping the future of public services across West Surrey, and work within a team committed to professionalism and delivering outstanding outcomes for our communities. Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future. When the new councils are created in April 2027, most staff will transfer to the new council on their current terms and conditions. Being part of a larger organisation may offer additional opportunities for career development and variety.
About the Role You will be responsible for the procurement of Goods, Services and Works, including managing the procurement process, spend analysis, category management, developing sourcing strategies, undertaking contract negotiations, supplier performance and supplier relationship management and the implementation and monitoring of contracts.
About You We are seeking an enthusiastic person with relevant knowledge and experience to join our Procurement team. The successful candidate will provide a high standard of procurement advice, knowledge and guidance across the Council, supporting the delivery of our corporate objectives and maximising value for money through efficient, sustainable and innovative practices. Applicants must have previous Local Government procurement experience.
Benefits We offer a generous benefits package including a minimum of 23 days’ annual leave rising to 28 days after 5 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, a generous local government pension scheme, free parking for all employees and payment of a professional membership fee. As well as subsidised gym membership at our local Places Leisure Centre and great savings from supermarkets, shopping, cycle to work schemes and holidays. A laptop and mobile phone will be provided for your role if applicable. Offers are usually made at the lower end of the salary band allowing for progression.
Closing date: 12 noon Wednesday 10th June, 2026 Interview date: pm 16th June & 17th June, 2026
Contact details For an informal discussion, please contact Loraine Austin, Procurement & Contracts Manager on 01276 707267, loraine.austin@surreyheath.gov.uk.
Our Commitment Surrey Heath Borough Council is committed to equality of opportunity in employment and service delivery and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. To fulfil this commitment we have robust systems in place for the safe recruitment of staff.
Equal Opportunities Surrey Heath Borough Council – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
How to apply Please apply online via the link provided. Surrey Heath Borough Council is committed to safer recruitment and equality of opportunity in employment and service delivery and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community. If you are unable to apply online for reasons of disability, please call 01276 707126 to discuss any reasonable adjustments that may be made to accommodate your individual requirements. Please note: All successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment checks in line with BPSS guidelines, which includes standard identification, referencing and unspent conviction checks. Surrey Heath Borough Council undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a disclosure on the basis of conviction or other information revealed. For the best chance of successful application, please read the Job Description and Personal Specification fully before applying for this vacancy as it contains information you will need to refer to when applying. We do not accept CV’s submitted without a fully completed application form. To reduce the risk of bias in its recruitment activities, the council is operating an anonymous shortlisting process, which hides personal information that can identify individuals until their application has been considered for shortlisting. If you choose to submit your CV with your application form we request that you remove all your personal details before uploading your CV. This will ensure that Managers cannot see your personal details when completing their shortlist. If you have not heard from the council within 4 weeks of the closing date you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful. All unsuccessful applications will be removed and confidentially disposed of 6 months after the closing date. If you have any further enquiries please email recruitment@surreyheath.gov.uk or telephone 01276 707126. For technical issues, please contact Jobsgopublic directly.
Procurement and Contracts Specialist in Surrey employer: Surrey Heath BC- Internal
Surrey Heath Borough Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and customer service, fostering a friendly and supportive work culture. With a commitment to innovation and flexibility, employees enjoy a generous benefits package, including ample annual leave, a local government pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development as the council transitions into the new West Surrey unitary authority. Joining our team means making a meaningful impact in public services while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement and Contracts Specialist in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Surrey Heath Borough Council and understand their values, especially around community engagement and customer service. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. Building relationships can give you insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows your enthusiasm for joining the council.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your previous procurement experience aligns with the job description. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the council's goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure to follow up after your interview to express your continued interest. A little persistence can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Contracts Specialist in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for, and it’ll help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Show Off Your Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, make sure to highlight any previous local government procurement experience you have. We want to see how your skills and knowledge can contribute to our team and the community.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised and running smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey Heath BC- Internal
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in the context of local government. Understand the key processes, regulations, and best practices that are relevant to Surrey Heath Borough Council. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Showcase Your Community Engagement Skills
Since the council values community engagement, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Share specific examples where your actions made a positive impact on the community or improved service delivery.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage supplier relationships. Think of examples from your previous experience where you had to negotiate contracts or resolve conflicts, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Innovation
With the upcoming local government reorganisation, highlight your adaptability and willingness to embrace change. Discuss any innovative ideas you have for improving procurement processes or enhancing value for money, as this aligns with the council's culture of creativity.
