At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for marine projects and support innovative ocean research.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine science while developing your procurement skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong stakeholder management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.
About the role
The Procurement Business Partner is part of our Procurement and Contract Management Team, providing expert procurement support that helps deliver NOC's mission. Using a category management approach, the team secures long-term value through strategic sourcing, framework agreements, effective contract management, and supplier risk management. As the team continues to grow, we're rolling out a new tendering system and evolving into a more sustainable, innovative, agile, and strategic function.
As a trusted Business Partner and procurement SME, you will support our marine operations, engineering, and autonomous systems community, building strong stakeholder relationships and delivering best practice procurement. Alongside supporting day-to-day operations, you'll play a key role in two exciting new marine projects, developing and implementing procurement strategies that align with organisational and stakeholder objectives.
Working alongside world-leading ocean researchers and supporting our fleet of advanced research vessels, including the RRS James Cook and RRS Discovery, you'll help procure and manage the infrastructure that enables pioneering marine science. You'll lead compliant sourcing activities, negotiate robust contracts, and manage supplier performance across areas such as vessel maintenance, marine engineering, autonomous systems, specialist equipment, and operational services, ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective delivery in a fast-paced environment.
About you
- We are seeking a candidate with a robust background in procurement, capable of effectively managing and prioritising multiple projects while fostering strong stakeholder relationships.
- Experience acting as a subject matter expert and business partner within cross-functional teams, supporting marine and engineering procurement activities.
- Proven ability to develop innovative sourcing strategies for complex engineering and marine requirements, including ship refits, maintenance programmes, autonomous systems, and fuel supply, while adapting to operational and regulatory changes.
- Strong skills in managing stakeholder relationships within a matrix structure, collaborating with technical, operations, and finance teams.
- Skilled in assessing organisational needs, communicating these to suppliers, and evaluating proposals/contracts for marine and engineering services, including vessel maintenance and dry-dock projects.
- Knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and procedures, including compliance with the Procurement Act 2023.
- Experience creating category plans based on market, cost, and supplier analysis for engineering services, marine equipment, ship repair, autonomous systems, and fuel supply frameworks.
- Demonstrated ability in supplier relationship management, including performance oversight and whole-life contract management for marine and engineering suppliers.
- Experience reviewing and negotiating supplier terms and preparing tender/framework documentation for ship maintenance, engineering projects, and fuel contracts.
- Familiarity with a wide range of procurement solutions, including negotiation and competitive tendering for engineering and marine categories.
- Experience with e-tendering/e-procurement systems and ERP systems (Unit4 advantageous), alongside exposure to large public tenders, Public Contracting Regulations, and procurement reporting and analytics.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
- Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services
- financial support for relocation
- a salary sacrifice scheme for electric/hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)
- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
- access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
- a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
Location
This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week.
We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position. Please note under current UK immigration rules, NOC is only able to sponsor candidates who meet the relevant VISA requirements. Unfortunately, this means that sponsorship is limited to certain categories of applicants such as those with a PhD in a relevant discipline or those qualifying under other exemptions. Applicants who do not meet the visa criteria will need to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard. Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy/maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.
Date advert posted: 03/08/2026
Closing date: 31/08/2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Procurement Category Manager - Marine & Engineering in Southampton employer: The National Oceanography Centre
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in oceanographic research. Employees benefit from a generous pension scheme, comprehensive wellbeing support, and opportunities for professional growth while contributing to meaningful scientific advancements aboard world-class research vessels. Based in Southampton, NOC fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring every team member's voice is valued as they tackle global marine challenges together.
Contact Details:
The National Oceanography Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager - Marine & Engineering in Southampton
✨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 The National Oceanography Centre.
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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!
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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 Procurement Category Manager - Marine & Engineering in Southampton
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 The National Oceanography Centre:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to The National Oceanography Centre. 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 The National Oceanography Centre.
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Oceanography Centre
✨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 The National Oceanography Centre!
✨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 The National Oceanography Centre. 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 The National Oceanography Centre's culture.
