At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement and contracts activities while ensuring compliance and maintaining supplier relationships.
- Company: Join a welcoming team with a caring ethos in a supportive school community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive benefits, discounts, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Access ongoing training and development opportunities to reach your full potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cost-saving initiatives and service delivery.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Junior Procurement and Contracts Officer to join our Central Team. This role supports procurement activities, contract management and value‑for‑money initiatives across our schools, ensuring compliance with procurement regulations, maintaining supplier relationships and contributing to efficient service delivery.
Key responsibilities and requirements:
- Support procurement and contracts activities across the federation.
- Provide strong organisational support for contract administration.
- Maintain effective supplier relationships.
- Ensure compliance with procurement regulations and internal policies.
- Contribute to cost‑saving and value‑for‑money initiatives.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Positive, can‑do attitude and willingness to learn.
Why Work With Us:
We are a welcoming and supportive team with a caring ethos. Our staff enjoy support from a leadership team and a broader school community.
Benefits:
- Competitive benefits package:
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Menopause Support Network
- Discounts on holidays, clothing and more (including discounts for teachers, Blue Light Discount, Eye Care Vouchers)
- Development: access to up‑to‑date training on safeguarding and child protection, ongoing statutory updates.
- CPD Programme
- Supportive leadership team to help you reach your full potential.
- Pension Scheme: excellent pension scheme with employer contributions above national standards.
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- One additional White Horse concessionary day’s leave per year.
Procurement and Contracts Officer in Swindon employer: The White Horse Federation
Join our welcoming and supportive team as a Junior Procurement and Contracts Officer, where you will play a vital role in enhancing procurement activities across our schools. We offer a competitive benefits package, including an excellent pension scheme, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a caring work culture that prioritises employee well-being and growth. With strong leadership support and a commitment to value-for-money initiatives, this is an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact while advancing their career.
Contact Details:
The White Horse Federation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement and Contracts Officer in Swindon
✨Get into the Right Communities
Join online forums and local meetups tailored to procurement and purchasing professionals. Groups on platforms like LinkedIn can be super helpful for connecting with seasoned pros and staying updated on industry trends. It's a great way for us to learn the ropes and find out about potential job openings!
✨Leverage Your University Network
If you're still at uni or just graduated, tap into your career services! They often have connections with companies looking for entry-level procurement talent. Plus, attending career fairs can put you face-to-face with employers—like The White Horse Federation—who are keen to discover fresh talent.
✨Show Off Your Skills in Real-Time
Consider volunteering for projects or internships that allow you to demonstrate your procurement skills. Whether it’s managing resources for an event or helping local businesses streamline their purchasing process, these hands-on experiences can make your application stand out and show hiring managers your ability to contribute.
✨Don't Just Stick to Online Applications
While applying through our website is a must, be proactive! Reach out to potential employers directly, like The White Horse Federation. A polite email expressing your interest in their entry-level roles could make a memorable impression. You never know what doors might open if you take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Contracts Officer in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Skills:For an entry-level role in procurement and purchasing, it’s super important to showcase any analytical skills, attention to detail, and organisational abilities. If you've done any projects or coursework relevant to supply chain management or procurement in your studies, make sure to mention that experience in your CV!
Show Your Passion for Procurement:Use your cover letter to express your interest in procurement and why you're excited about this specific opportunity at The White Horse Federation. Talk about your eagerness to learn and how you can contribute to their purchasing strategy. A little enthusiasm can go a long way!
Include Any Relevant Experience:Even if you don’t have direct procurement experience, consider including any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work that demonstrate your skills in negotiation, relationship building, or project management. These transferable skills are just as important for an entry-level role!
Tailor Your Application for The White Horse Federation:When applying, take the time to customise your CV and cover letter for The White Horse Federation. Mention their values and any specific procurement challenges they face that you’d love to help with. This shows not just your effort, but also your genuine interest in the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at The White Horse Federation
✨Get to Grips with Basic Procurement Concepts
Before your interview for the Procurement and Contracts Officer at The White Horse Federation, brush up on key procurement terms and processes. Knowing the difference between strategic sourcing and operational purchasing can go a long way in showcasing your knowledge and eagerness to learn!
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Procurement relies heavily on analysis, so be prepared to tackle some case studies or numerical questions during your interview. Reflect on any academic projects or coursework where you've used data analysis to make purchasing decisions, as these will highlight your problem-solving skills to the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Entry-level roles often focus on your potential rather than extensive experience. Get ready for behavioural questions that explore how you handle teamwork or problem-solving. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and relate them back to any group projects or internships you've done.
✨Research Current Trends in Procurement
Being up-to-date with the latest trends can set you apart as a fresh candidate eager to contribute. Familiarise yourself with sustainable sourcing practices or digital procurement technologies, and bring these up during your interview to impress the hiring team at The White Horse Federation with your insights!
