At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement activities to deliver positive outcomes for the West Lothian community.
- Company: West Lothian Council, dedicated to high-quality public services.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your procurement skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or supply chain; CIPS qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
36 hours per week, 52.14 weeks per year, Permanent
West Lothian Council is committed to delivering high-quality public services and ensuring that procurement activity is conducted in accordance with the council’s internal governance framework and all Scottish, UK and, where appropriate, international legislation governing public sector procurement.
We are seeking to recruit a Procurement Officer to join the Corporate Procurement Unit, supporting council services to deliver positive outcomes for the West Lothian community while achieving best value in all procurement activity.
Working as part of a team of procurement professionals, you will provide expert support, advice and guidance to suppliers, internal client departments, colleagues and external stakeholders, delivering a high-quality, customer-focused service.
You will play a key role in the planning and delivery of procurement exercises across the procurement lifecycle. This includes market engagement, supplier and spend analysis, options appraisal, tender development and evaluation, negotiation, and contract award activities.
You will work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop procurement solutions that meet service requirements while supporting best value, sustainable procurement and community wealth building objectives.
You should have relevant experience of working within a procurement or supply chain function and be able to operate effectively in a fast-paced dynamic environment. You should have achieved, or be willing to work towards, the relevant CIPS qualification for this role.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Hybrid working is available for this role, with part of the working week based at the council’s Civic Centre in Livingston. Further details of this exciting opportunity can be found within the Application Package.
Procurement Officer, West Lothian Civic Centre, 510.18 - WEL10940 in Livingston employer: West Lothian Council
West Lothian Council is an excellent employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee development and well-being. At Polkemmet Primary School, you will be part of a forward-thinking team that values diversity and offers flexible working arrangements, ensuring that you can thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Officer, West Lothian Civic Centre, 510.18 - WEL10940 in Livingston
✨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 West Lothian Council.
✨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 Officer, West Lothian Civic Centre, 510.18 - WEL10940 in Livingston
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 West Lothian Council:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to West Lothian Council. 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 West Lothian Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨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 West Lothian Council!
✨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 West Lothian Council. 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 West Lothian Council's culture.
