procurement professional

BERKSHIRE HEALTHCARE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST; Bracknell; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization is seeking a Senior Buyer in Bracknell to join their Procurement Team. The candidate will manage high-value tenders and contracts, driving cost-saving initiatives while ensuring compliance with procurement legislation. Responsibilities include negotiating with suppliers, supporting patient care service improvements, and overseeing procurement projects. The role offers flexible working options, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career development. Apply soon, as early applications may close the vacancy.

Benefits

Flexible working options

27 days annual leave

Generous NHS pension scheme

Learning and career development opportunities

'Cycle to Work' scheme

Wellbeing tools and services

Discounts at retailers

Diversity staff networks

Generous leave policies

Free parking

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of public procurement experience or equivalent.
• Knowledge of Provider Selection Regime and Public Procurement Act 2023.
• Proven track record in managing complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex, high-value tenders and contracts.
• Negotiate effectively with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives.
• Lead compliant tendering processes for contracts over £10k.

Skills

Public procurement experience

Knowledge of public procurement law

Managing multiple complex procurement projects

Education

CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply or equivalent

Job description

Overview

We're looking for a Senior Buyer to join our friendly and experienced Procurement Team at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. You'll use your commercial expertise & public sector knowledge to directly contribute to the quality, efficiency and impact of NHS services across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage complex, high-value tenders and contracts
• Negotiate effectively with suppliers and stakeholders
• Drive cost‑saving initiatives and value for money
• Support service improvements that benefit patient care
• Deliver value through compliant and timely procurement of goods and services
• Support the Tender Manager and Head of Procurement to meet financial targets, maintain governance standards and promote procurement excellence at all levels of the organisation
• Lead compliant tendering processes for contracts over £10k + VAT in line with procurement legislation and Trust policies
• Develop tender documentation, evaluate bids (including full life‑cycle costing) and coordinate award recommendations
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate improved pricing and resolve disputes while maintaining patient care standards
• Approve contracts and orders up to £30k and advise on authorisation for higher‑value procurements
• Oversee a portfolio of contracts, ensuring performance, compliance and delivery of value for money
• Validate invoices where required and ensure contracts are accurately recorded in the Trust's Contract Management System
• Publish transparency notices on the Central Digital Platform and manage resulting expressions of interest
• Support the Tender Manager and Head of Procurement with strategy development, policy updates, business cases and procurement work plans
• Provide expert advice to stakeholders across the Trust on procurement processes and best practice
• Deliver internal training and help ensure organisational compliance with procurement policies
• Promote product standardisation and support regional collaboration via NHS Commercial Alliance and BOB ICs
• Contribute to delivering annual cost savings and supporting procurement‑related projects as required

Qualifications

• Public procurement experience (3–5 years or equivalent)
• Knowledge of public procurement law (including Provider Selection Regime and Public Procurement Act 2023)
• Attained or working towards CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply or equivalent
• Track record of managing multiple complex procurement projects and contracts

Benefits

• Flexible working options to support work‑life balance
• 27 days annual leave rising with service + opportunity to buy and sell
• Generous NHS pension scheme
• Excellent learning and career development opportunities
• 'Cycle to Work' and car leasing scheme including electric vehicles
• Access to a range of wellbeing tools and services
• Discounts at hundreds of popular retailers and restaurants
• Staff networks for race, diversity, disabilities, the environment and armed forces community to support equality
• Generous maternity, paternity, adoption and special leave
• Free parking across Trust sites

Values

• Caring for and about you is our top priority
• Committed to providing good quality, safe services
• Working together with you to develop innovative solutions

Working Environment

The base for this role is London House in Bracknell, however much of your work can be remote. Our Trust is rated 'Outstanding' by the CQC, who highlight our positive culture, staff morale and innovation. We're committed to employee well‑being and career development.

Applications are processed as they are received. We encourage you to apply ASAP as vacancies can close early. We appreciate the interest of previous applicants; however, only new applications will be considered at this time.