At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage client relationships in the energy sector.
- Company: Sustainable Energy First, a consultancy focused on energy management and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous holidays, and gym contributions.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values inclusion and empowers every voice.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on sustainability while developing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: A minimum of 3 A Levels and experience in the energy industry.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 36000 £ per year.
Our purpose 🌍 Inspiring and empowering our people to create a positive difference for themselves, our clients and the planet. Sustainable Energy First is an energy and sustainability consultancy, founded to solve energy management problems in very large, complex commercial estates. This remains the core of our business driven by a commitment to sustainability and the goal of reducing our clients’ carbon footprint.
This is a highly collaborative and commercially focused role, working with senior client stakeholders to shape and deliver tailored procurement strategies. The Consortium Procurement Specialist leads the end-to-end process—from strategy scoping through to sourcing, negotiation, and implementation of supply agreements, typically within fixed price or portfolio models. With clear accountability for converting opportunities into revenue, this role plays a key part in strengthening client relationships and ensuring the successful delivery of our procurement services.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the primary point of contact for allocated accounts, driving engagement and converting opportunities into revenue through the delivery of our procurement service.
- Build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, advising on procurement strategies and guiding clients to the most effective solutions for their business needs.
- Lead risk management discussions, scoping client requirements and formalising strategies through Risk Management Strategy (RMS) documentation.
- Manage the end-to-end tendering process for gas, power, and water—issuing, analysing, and evaluating competitive supplier bids.
- Provide clear market insights and risk analysis to support client decision-making on contract extensions and new agreements.
- Make informed supply contract recommendations, balancing pricing, service, and operational value.
- Maintain accurate and compliant records within ICMAS, ensuring all activities align with internal processes and performance objectives.
- Deliver consistent, high-quality communication to build strong, long-term client partnerships.
- Collaborate with colleagues to resolve client queries, enhance processes, and improve system efficiency.
- Support wider business initiatives by identifying and unlocking additional revenue opportunities.
About You
- A minimum of 3 A Levels at grades A–C (or equivalent), including English and Maths.
- Previous experience within the energy industry, with a good understanding of commodity markets and purchasing strategies.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly advanced Excel skills.
- Proven experience producing high-quality reports and insights for external clients using Excel and Word.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly both verbally and in writing.
- Strong analytical capability, with the ability to assess data, evaluate risks, and develop well-informed recommendations.
- Highly numerate, with excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- A proactive problem-solver, able to identify opportunities and deliver effective solutions.
Benefits
- Salary: £31,000 to £36,000 dependant on experience.
- Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays + 🥳 your birthday off, increasing to 30 days on length of service.
- Hybrid working (at least 2 days per week working from our Fulwood, Preston office).
- Flexible working - including the ability to bank up to 5 extra days off per year.
- Gym contribution.
- Long service awards.
- Private Medical Insurance.
- Enhanced paternity/non-pregnant colleague and maternity/pregnant colleague leave.
- Simply Health scheme.
- EV Scheme.
Inclusion and Belonging
We believe that diversity is more than a commitment, it’s at the heart 🤎 of who we are. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. We celebrate different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences because we know they make us stronger, bolder and more imaginative, which link to our core values. By fostering a culture of belonging, we aim to provide a workplace where every voice is heard, and every individual can thrive. Our culture has been set up to bring the best out of our people. If we sound like the kind of business where you’re ready to take the next step, then we look forward to hearing from you!
Consortium Procurement Specialist employer: Sustainable Energy First
Sustainable Energy First is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees while making a positive impact on the planet. With a strong commitment to sustainability, a collaborative work culture, and generous benefits including hybrid working, flexible hours, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally in our Fulwood, Preston office. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your career development in the dynamic energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Consortium Procurement Specialist
✨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 Sustainable Energy First.
✨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 Consortium Procurement Specialist
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 Sustainable Energy First:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Sustainable Energy First. 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 Sustainable Energy First.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sustainable Energy First
✨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 Sustainable Energy First!
✨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 Sustainable Energy First. 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 Sustainable Energy First's culture.
