Assistant Director, Procurement Specialist

Local Government Chronicle; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Birmingham is seeking an Assistant Director, Procurement Specialist to lead strategic procurement initiatives. This role is pivotal for delivering measurable impact through effective management of a £1.75 billion annual spend. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in large-scale procurement transformations and relevant qualifications such as MCIPS. Be part of a transformative public service that aims to build a more sustainable and impactful future for residents.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large-scale procurement transformation.
• Active member of MCIPS or equivalent qualifications.
• Ability to enable high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across procurement lifecycle.
• Embed the Procurement Act 2023 for compliance.
• Ensure spending supports social, economic, and environmental objectives.

Skills

Leadership in procurement transformation

Governance and compliance

Team empowerment

Education

MCIPS or equivalent

Job description

Assistant Director, Procurement Specialist

Location: Birmingham (Hybrid – 3 days on site). Salary: Competitive

About the role

Birmingham is a city in transformation and so is our Council. As we embark on one of the most ambitious financial and organisational recovery programmes in local government, procurement is at the heart of how we deliver value, drive sustainability, and create impact for our 1.1 million residents.

We are seeking an outstanding Assistant Director, Procurement Specialist to help shape a modern, data‑led and socially responsible procurement function within our reimagined Commercial and Procurement Service.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the full procurement lifecycle – from category management and sourcing through to contract performance and supplier relationship management.
• Embed the Procurement Act 2023, strengthen governance and compliance.
• Ensure that every pound spent supports our wider social, economic and environmental objectives.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large‑scale procurement transformation in the public or regulated sectors.
• Hold or be an active member of MCIPS (or equivalent).
• Passion for enabling high‑performing teams.

This is a rare opportunity to influence how £1.75 billion of annual spend delivers measurable impact for Birmingham's citizens and communities.

Closing date: 5 January 2026.

Apply now to play a pivotal role in building a fairer, more sustainable future for our city.