Sustainable Procurement Manager

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Oxford is seeking a Sustainability Lead to drive sustainability interventions across its supply chain, focusing on carbon emissions and biodiversity impact. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and project management skills, along with a passion for environmental sustainability. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful sustainability targets in a respected institution.

Benefits

38 days annual leave

Generous family leave scheme

Hybrid and flexible working

Contributory pension scheme

Affordable commuting options

Access to social and sports clubs

Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills to review and interpret data.
• Proven experience managing projects from concept to delivery.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of sustainability interventions.
• Improve tracking and reporting of environmental impacts.
• Build relationships with internal teams and suppliers.

Skills

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication and influencing

Supplier engagement for sustainability

Interest in environmental sustainability

Job description

You will lead the design and delivery of sustainability interventions across our supply chain, with a particular focus on Scope 3 carbon emissions and biodiversity impact. Working closely with the Head of Environment, Biodiversity Manager, Procurement colleagues and higher education networks, you will identify opportunities to improve environmental performance, pilot innovative solutions, and embed best practice into procurement policies and contracts. Your work will involve building relationships with internal teams, suppliers, and external networks to share knowledge, influence change, and achieve measurable environmental benefits. You will also improve how we track and report environmental impacts, ensuring decisions are informed by accurate and meaningful data. This is a high-profile role that offers you the chance to make a tangible difference at one of the world\'s most respected universities - directly contributing to our ambitious sustainability targets and leaving a lasting positive legacy.

• Strong analytical skills to review and interpret data, turning insights into evidence-based actions.
• Proven experience managing projects from concept to delivery.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with suppliers to improve sustainability while ensuring good value for money
• A deep interest in environmental sustainability and sustainable procurement

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world\'s leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you\'ll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

The Environmental Sustainability team drives the University\'s commitment to achieving net zero carbon and biodiversity net gain by 2035. Working collaboratively across departments and with external partners, we develop policies, deliver projects, and engage stakeholders to embed environmental responsibility into every aspect of University operations.

What We Offer

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.