At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement projects and drive strategic initiatives for the University.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a top-ranked institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the University's financial wellbeing and research profile.
- Qualifications: Experience in tendering procedures and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 48822 - 48822 £ per year.
The University of Edinburgh is looking for a Senior Procurement Officer to join one of our 4 Category teams: Laboratories, Medical, Veterinary Medical (Labs), Estates & Facilities (Estates), Information Services (IS), Professional & Campus Services (PCS). The vacancies are currently in the IS and Estates teams. Whilst experience in these areas will offer an advantage, we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
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.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also a Stonewall Proud Employer, actively promoting LGBTQ+ equality. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and particularly encourage applications from candidates currently underrepresented in the School of Mathematics.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. On this occasion, the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
The closing date for applications is 8 September 2026 at 12pm.
Senior Procurement Officer in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises equality, diversity, and inclusion. With over 400 years of history, it provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive community of more than 17,000 staff and 50,000 students. As a leading research-intensive university, it empowers its employees to drive organisational transformation and innovate in a dynamic environment, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Officer in Edinburgh
✨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 of Edinburgh.
✨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 Senior Procurement Officer in Edinburgh
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 of Edinburgh:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to University of Edinburgh. 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 of Edinburgh.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨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 of Edinburgh!
✨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 of Edinburgh. 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 of Edinburgh's culture.
