At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement projects, contracts, and strategic initiatives to enhance the University’s financial health.
- Company: Join a top-ranked University committed to innovation and excellence in research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, supportive team culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team that shapes the future of procurement in a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Experience in tendering, contract management, and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a permanent, full-time role with a focus on strategic impact and stakeholder engagement.
The predicted salary is between 35400 - 42600 £ per year.
Full-time: 35 hours per week
Open-ended (permanent)
The Opportunity: Reporting to the relevant Category Head, the successful candidate will be responsible for the tendering, award and contract management of a range of procurement projects; as well as strategic initiatives stemming from market engagement and spend analyses. The post-holder will be expected to contribute to the University’s financial wellbeing and international research profile, by delivering cash savings and other cost efficiencies; and supporting the knowledge creation and transfer which lies at the heart of the University’s Strategy 2030.
The post-holder will join a forward-thinking, ambitious and supportive procurement team, already well advanced in a service transformation programme. As part of the wider Finance Directorate, we aim to deliver world-class services to the University’s academic teaching and research staff and professional services colleagues, in keeping with the institution’s Top-20 World Ranking.
You will engage directly with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that Procurement delivers innovative, fit for purpose solutions which are aligned to University objectives and Government policy. Candidates will be encouraged to exercise initiative and discretion, taking ownership of strategic procurements that deliver maximum benefit across the University.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Self-motivated and proactive, with a passion to help shape and develop the service.
- Practical experience and sound theoretical knowledge of end-to-end tendering procedures, including use of eTendering systems.
- A solid grounding of in-life contract and supplier relationship management.
- Good computing literacy and numerical analysis skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills and commercial judgement.
£40,497 to £48,149 per annum (Grade 7)
Senior Procurement Officer employer: The University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
The University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement and contract management. Understanding current best practices and innovations in the field will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement sector, especially those who have experience in academic institutions. Engaging with others in the field can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed procurement projects in the past. Highlighting your practical experience with tendering procedures and supplier relationship management will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University’s Strategy 2030 and align your understanding of procurement with their goals. Showing that you are not only aware of their objectives but also how you can contribute to them will make a strong impression during the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Procurement Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, particularly focusing on tendering procedures and contract management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in negotiation and supplier relationship management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for procurement and how you can contribute to the University’s financial wellbeing and research profile. Mention your proactive approach and any strategic initiatives you've successfully implemented in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your computing literacy and numerical analysis skills in your application. Provide examples of how your attention to detail has led to successful outcomes in past procurement projects.
Showcase Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrate your ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders. Include examples of how you've delivered innovative solutions aligned with organisational objectives, showcasing your commercial judgement and communication skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Edinburgh
✨Understand the Procurement Process
Make sure you have a solid grasp of end-to-end tendering procedures. Familiarise yourself with eTendering systems, as this knowledge will be crucial in demonstrating your practical experience during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've effectively communicated and negotiated in past roles. Highlight any successful outcomes from these interactions.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Be ready to talk about how you've contributed to cost efficiencies or cash savings in previous positions. Think of specific instances where your strategic initiatives made a significant impact on your organisation.
✨Highlight Attention to Detail
Given the importance of numerical analysis and contract management in this role, prepare to discuss how your attention to detail has helped you avoid pitfalls in procurement processes or improved supplier relationships.