Corporate Procurement Officer

Rossendale Borough Council; Bacup; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Corporate Procurement Officer to lead the transformation of procurement processes. This role involves ensuring compliance with the Procurement Act 2023, providing strategic oversight, and enhancing procurement efficiency across the Council. The successful candidate will collaborate with various departments, offering guidance and training on procurement policies while managing supplier relationships and contract negotiations. If you're passionate about public service and procurement excellence, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Benefits

Flexible working

Family friendly policies

On-site free parking

Up to 31 days' annual leave

Option to purchase additional leave

Salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme

Savings and loan scheme

Discounted gym membership

Generous pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in contract management within a public sector environment.
• Knowledge of the latest procurement regulations and legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead transformation of procurement in line with the Procurement Act 2023.
• Provide procurement advice and guidance across the Council.

Skills

Contract Management

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Negotiation Skills

Ability to Work Under Pressure

Education

CIPS Level 2, 3 or 4

Tools

Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)

Job description

Salary – Up to £47,754
£36,124 to £41,511 per annum plus a £6,000 Market Supplement Payment
Hours – 37 hours – office base, on-site, hybrid working

The role

We are currently looking to appoint a Corporate Procurement Officer. The role will lead on the transformation of procurement within the authority in line with the Procurement Act 2023 and ensure compliance with the Council’s ongoing procurement strategies. As a partner to colleagues across the authority, the successful candidate will provide procurement advice and guidance to services across the Council.

Qualifications

CIPS Level 2, 3 or 4 or equivalent qualification and/or equivalent experience.

Duties and responsibilities

1. Establish and maintain procurement policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure compliance with local government regulations and best practices.
2. Provide training and support to council staff on procurement policies, procedures, and systems. Offer guidance on best practices and compliance requirements.
3. Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant legislation (in particular the Procurement Act 2023), policies, and procedures.
4. Monitor, review and report on procurement performance and tendering arrangements to ensure that the Council can demonstrate best value in its procurement activities.
5. Oversee the tendering process, including preparing tender documents, evaluating bids, and awarding contracts. Ensure all contracts are managed effectively and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
6. Identify and manage risks associated with procurement activities.
7. Manage relationships with suppliers, including negotiating and renegotiating contracts, monitoring performance, and ensuring the delivery of goods and services meets the required standards.
8. Maintain the Council’s Contract Register and associated data.
9. Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements in procurement processes.
10. Use emerging IT and technology to increase the benefits of procurement policies for the Council.
11. Lead on the development and implementation of the Procurement Strategy, including sustainability objectives that enhance the Council’s purchasing power.
12. Oversee the vendor selection process, ensuring that suppliers meet performance standards and business continuity needs.
13. Provide strategic oversight and expertise in procurement planning, approval, and control procedures.

Person Specification

1. Experience in contract management in a Public Sector environment.
2. Experience of using Microsoft Office applications, in particular Outlook, Excel, Word.
3. Experience of interpreting legislation, policy and guidance to contribute to the formulation of local policies and procedures that comply with national requirements.
4. Knowledge of the latest Procurement Regulations.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
6. Ability to work with accuracy and attention to detail.
7. Ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines.
8. Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.
9. High degree of tact and diplomacy.
10. A commitment to developing and maintaining high levels of customer care.
11. Must be prepared to work flexibly to meet deadlines throughout the year.
12. Ability and willingness to demonstrate the council’s values and behaviours.

Benefits

• Flexible working
• Family friendly policies
• On-site free parking
• Up to 31 days' annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
• Option to purchase additional leave
• Salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme
• Savings and loan scheme
• Discounted gym membership
• Generous pension scheme
• Additional voluntary contribution to AVC
• Staff reward scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee forums (Your Voice, Health & Wellbeing)

General Statement

The information contained in this job description is provided to assist employees joining the council to understand and appreciate the work content of their post and the role they will play in the organisation. However, the following point should be noted:

• Whilst every endeavour has been made to outline all the duties and responsibilities of the post, a document such as this does not permit every item to be specified in detail.

How to apply

Download and complete the application form at https://www.rossendale.gov.uk. Application forms should be returned to:
Rossendale Borough Council, People & Policy, The Business Centre, Futures Park, Bacup, Lancashire, OL13 0BB

Alternatively, email your name and address, quoting reference number RS1007 to or telephone People and Policy on 01706 252513.

Closing Date – Monday 10th February 2025 at 10 am.
Interview Date – To be confirmed.

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