At a Glance
- Tasks: Support schools by managing procurement needs and ensuring efficient spending.
- Company: Join Ark Schools, a leader in education with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with hybrid working, competitive salary, and potential apprenticeship.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education while developing your skills in procurement.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths required; strong admin and communication skills essential.
The predicted salary is between 22050 - 26950 £ per year.
Reports to: Procurement Officer
Location: Currently operating hybrid working in our West London Office
Contract: Permanent
Pattern: Full Time (standard hours 9am – 5.30pm)
As a Procurement and Supply Assistant, you will undertake a range of responsibilities to support the delivery of Ark Schools’ Procurement Strategy. This is a varied and busy role, supporting Ark’s schools on the frontline of their operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Liaise with schools to understand their procurement and supply requirements, and take action to make sure these are met
- Work with schools to ensure that their spend is managed efficiently, that they have contracts in place where required, and that their contracts are subject to regular review
- Own the Procurement Workplan, making sure that key deadlines are met, and that the Director of Finance and Procurement is kept updated on all key procurement activity
- Working with line manager, analyse procurement spend, making recommendations for new network contract and approved lists
- Negotiate with existing suppliers to obtain discounts and improved terms for schools
Knowledge & Skills:
- Strong administrative and organisational skills with meticulous attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work methodically and multi-task
- Ability to manage workload, meet deadlines and prioritise time effectively
- IT Literate; proficient with Microsoft Office applications, especially Word and Excel
Qualification Criteria:
- GCSE passes in English and Maths of grade 4 or above (essential)
- Potential to study for the Procurement and Supply Assistant apprenticeship as part of this role if successful
- Right to work in the U.K.
Safeguarding statement:
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non-disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred.
Procurement Assistant in London employer: Totalwellnessacupuncture
Totalwellnessacupuncture is an exceptional employer that values the well-being of both its clients and employees. With a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development, you will have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities while making a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults in Bridgend. The hybrid working model offers flexibility, allowing you to balance your personal and professional life effectively.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Assistant in London
✨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 Totalwellnessacupuncture.
✨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 Procurement Assistant in London
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 Totalwellnessacupuncture:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Totalwellnessacupuncture. 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 Totalwellnessacupuncture.
How to prepare for a job interview at Totalwellnessacupuncture
✨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 Totalwellnessacupuncture!
✨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 Totalwellnessacupuncture. 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 Totalwellnessacupuncture's culture.
