At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier contracts for property, facilities, and IT.
- Company: University for the Creative Arts, a vibrant institution fostering creativity and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and build relationships across the university and with external partners.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on cost savings and strategic sourcing in a creative university setting.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in procurement leadership and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is seeking a skilled procurement leader to manage property, facilities and IT spend, driving value for money and compliance with frameworks. You will head the procurement service within the Finance Department, lead negotiations, and provide strategic direction for supplier contracts that align with cost saving and investment objectives.
You will build strong relationships across the University and with external stakeholders, and lead a small procurement team.
Head of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing in Farnham employer: University for the Creative Arts
At the University for the Creative Arts, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As the Head of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing, you will benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the university community. Located in a vibrant academic setting, we offer a unique advantage of engaging with creative minds while driving strategic initiatives that enhance our operational efficiency.
Contact Details:
University for the Creative Arts Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing in Farnham
✨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 University for the Creative Arts.
✨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 Head of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing in Farnham
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 University for the Creative Arts:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to University for the Creative Arts. 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 University for the Creative Arts.
How to prepare for a job interview at University for the Creative Arts
✨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 University for the Creative Arts!
✨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 University for the Creative Arts. 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 University for the Creative Arts's culture.
