Procurement Manager

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS); England; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) seeks a Procurement Manager to enhance their Commercial team. This role involves managing diverse procurement projects, supporting strategic development, and engaging stakeholders in a dynamic environment. Candidates will benefit from a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a flexible working model.

Benefits

30 days' annual leave

Flexible working hours

Defined benefit pension scheme

Christmas shutdown

Additional £2,500 allowance for MCIPS-qualified staff

Professional development through mentoring and training

Qualifications

• Experience in a regulated procurement environment is essential.
• Proven ability to manage projects from market engagement to contract award.
• Ability to develop procurement strategies and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Undertake complex procurements and support end-users.
• Advise on regulations and develop procurement skills.
• Engage stakeholders and maintain procurement documentation.

Skills

Customer-focused

Procurement project management

Contract management

Commercial awareness

Excellent communication

Education

MCIPS qualification or willingness to pursue

Higher education or equivalent experience

Tools

e-sourcing applications

Job description

UK Research and Innovation

UKRI Procurement Manager

Salary: £45,272 plus Specialist Allowance of £2,500 per annum for full members of CIPS.

Grade: UKRI Band E

Contract Type: Open Ended

Hours: Full Time

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, Oxfordshire.

Closing Date: 2nd June 2025

Interviews: W/c 16th June 2025

Are you interested in contributing to cutting-edge scientific research that can make a difference? UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) offers exciting opportunities for procurement professionals to join our Commercial team!

UKRI Commercial aims to develop further to provide excellent commercial support, especially as the Procurement Act introduces significant regulatory changes. We welcome applicants who may not have extensive public procurement experience, as we will learn the new regulations together.

As a Procurement Manager, you will join an established team involved in diverse projects across research disciplines, supporting strategic development and skill enhancement, with potential positive impacts for society.

UKRI is a non-departmental public body integrating seven Research Councils, Innovate UK, and Research England, managing over £6bn annually for research and innovation.

Roles within UKRI support various Research Councils, primarily within the Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).

The Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

STFC delivers world-leading research in particle physics, space science, and related fields, supporting facilities at Harwell, Daresbury, and across the UK.

The Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) pioneers work in particle physics, scientific computing, laser development, and space research, addressing societal challenges.

STFC procures complex and unique products and services, including equipment, technical services, and infrastructure.

Candidate Profile

We seek a dynamic, enthusiastic individual capable of managing diverse procurement projects, engaging stakeholders confidently, and demonstrating professional credibility throughout the procurement lifecycle.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Customer-focused with a commitment to high-quality, cost-effective service delivery (S & I)
• Experience procuring goods/services in a regulated environment (S & I)
• Proven ability to manage procurement projects from market engagement to contract award (I)
• Experience in contract management (S)
• Ability to develop procurement strategies and tender evaluation models, producing high-quality documentation (S & I)
• Good commercial awareness (S)
• Experience with e-sourcing applications (I)
• Ability to interpret procurement terms and advise on non-standard conditions (I)
• Excellent communication skills at all levels (S & I)

Desirable Criteria

• Knowledge of public procurement regulations (PCR) and processes
• MCIPS qualification or willingness to pursue
• Ability to train and advise on procurement procedures
• Higher education or equivalent experience
• Procurement experience in technical organizations
• Supervisory or management experience

Role Purpose and Responsibilities

The role involves undertaking complex procurements, supporting end-users, advising on regulations, and developing procurement skills within the organization. Responsibilities include sourcing, contracting, stakeholder engagement, risk assessment, and maintaining procurement documentation.

What We Offer

UKRI provides a comprehensive benefits package, including 30 days' annual leave, flexible working hours, a defined benefit pension scheme, Christmas shutdown, and an additional £2,500 allowance for MCIPS-qualified staff. We support professional development through mentoring, training, and study leave for MCIPS qualification. Our hybrid working model allows three days remote work per week.

Application Process

Please submit a CV and cover letter demonstrating your suitability and motivation. For assistance, contact [e-mail]. Ensure your documents include the reference number and are addressed as specified. Applications without a cover letter or not meeting criteria may not be considered.

About UKRI

UKRI, launched in April 2018, is a non-departmental public body supporting research and innovation in the UK, bringing together multiple research councils and agencies to maintain the UK's global leadership in these fields. More information is available at www.ukri.org.

Equality and Inclusion

UKRI is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. We are a Disability Confident Employer and strive for an inclusive workforce.