Efficient, ethical distribution of resources. We play a vital role in the wider system, and we need a leader who values partnerships over paperwork and integrity over "spin." The Head of Procurement and Contracts will be an innovative self‑starter, focused on developing and implementing a high‑function procurement service.
THE ROLE
This is a pivotal leadership role within TKAT, responsible for shaping and delivering a Trust‑wide procurement and contracts strategy that drives value, innovation, and compliance. Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will lead a dedicated team to ensure our resources are used effectively across the Trust. From IT and Catering to Estates and Corporate Services, you will be the commercial heart of the Trust, ensuring every contract aligns with our mission to inspire a community of aspirational learners.
Key Impact Areas
* Strategic Leadership: Develop a forward‑looking procurement strategy that balances commercial acumen with our educational goals.
* Operational Excellence: Lead complex, high‑value tenders (PCR 2015 / PA 2023) and oversee contract management that ensures quality for our schools.
* Empowering Others: Mentor a high‑performing team and partner with Headteachers and Business Managers to provide tailored, value‑driven solutions.
* Integrity & Collaboration: Act as a trusted advisor to the Board, ensuring our growth is sustainable and our partnerships are ethical.
You are a professionally qualified procurement expert (MCIPS) who thrives in complex, multi‑site environments. You are "digitally fluent" and possess the commercial acumen to negotiate for the best outcomes, but you do so with the empathy and respect that defines our culture. Ready to build something sustainable? We are looking for a specific mindset. You might be the right person if:
* Have extensive experience leading procurement functions in the public or complex private sectors.
* Can translate technical procurement data into clear, impactful insights for Executive Boards.
* Are a collaborative "bridge‑builder" who enjoys supporting colleagues and sharing knowledge.
* Are passionate about social mobility and want your work to have a tangible impact on the lives of children.
Disability Confident. A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high‑volume, seasonal and high‑peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non‑disabled people. For more details please go to .
Benefits
* Executive CPD & Strategic Training: Access high‑level professional development tailored to senior leadership and advanced procurement strategy.
* Executive Coaching & Mentoring: Receive dedicated guidance and peer‑to‑peer insight from our Trust's executive leadership team.
* Funded Professional Accreditations: Expand your credentials with funded opportunities for MCIPS or other relevant high‑level management qualifications.
* Headspace Subscription: Enjoy free, full access to the world's leading mindfulness app to maintain focus and balance in a high‑stakes role.
* Eight‑Week Mindfulness Programme: Participate in a free, expert‑led mindfulness course (8 x 90‑minute out‑of‑hours sessions) to support mental resilience.
* Blue Light Card Eligibility: Save more on shopping, dining, and travel with access to the UK's premier discount scheme for the education sector.
* Cycle to Work Scheme: Enjoy a healthier, more sustainable commute by spreading the cost of a new bike and equipment.
* Generous Local Government Pension Scheme: Secure your future with substantial employer contributions toward your long‑term financial wellbeing.
* A Supportive, Innovative Culture: Join a forward‑thinking central team that values data‑driven decision‑making, champions work‑life balance, and empowers you to drive meaningful change across the Trust.
Why Join Us?
This is more than a procurement role; it's an opportunity to shape the future of education. We offer a workplace where you have the autonomy to innovate, the support to grow, and the knowledge that your work has a tangible, positive impact on society.
We have a flexible approach to interviews and can offer a range of dates and times to suit your personal circumstances. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should we receive a significant number of applications.
Safeguarding TKAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Offers of employment will be subject to the full safer recruitment process, including an enhanced disclosure and barring service check.
Flexible working: TKAT recognises the value of enabling our employees to develop their career and balance this with their commitments and interests outside of work. In TKAT we promote flexible working practices and opportunities to promote a positive work life balance.
Our Commitment – Equity, Inclusion, Diversity and Belonging. At TKAT, we are committed to Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Belonging. We embrace and celebrate differences, value individual experiences, aspirations, and achievements, and continuously learn how to grow better together.
Access to interview: Be Who You Are at TKAT – should you be selected and invited to interview please let us know if you require us to adapt the recruitment process to enable you to participate as your authentic self. We want applicants to be able to engage with us in ways that support who they are and we are committed to making adjustments within the recruitment process and within the workplace.
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