Job description
Procurement Manager
Permanent | £50,000-£59,000 | Hybrid (Minimum 2 days in office, London)
A Higher Education institution in London is currently recruiting for a Procurement Manager to oversee strategic and operational procurement across the university. Procurement within a university setting is a critical function that ensures public funds are spent responsibly, transparently, and in compliance with legislation. It involves managing a diverse range of spend categories from: IT and facilities to academic services, while balancing value for money, sustainability, and stakeholder needs. Universities operate under strict procurement regulations, making this a highly specialised and impactful role.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead tenders for major university-wide contracts (e.g. catering, utilities, insurance, IT), as well as smaller ad hoc procurement's.
* Negotiate and manage contracts with internal budget holders to ensure value and mitigate risk.
* Develop and maintain online registers for contracts, tender waivers, and conflicts of interest.
* Ensure procurement policies and procedures are compliant with current legislation (e.g. PCR 2015, Procurement Act 2023), and deliver regular staff training.
* Draft specifications and manage procurement processes (including mini competitions and ITTs) in line with legal thresholds.
* Monitor procurement activity and compliance, producing quarterly reports for senior leadership.
* Collaborate with legal counsel to update procurement documentation in line with regulatory changes.
* Recruit and manage a Procurement Officer, ensuring team resilience and continuity.
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Qualifications & Experience
* Degree-level education and professional procurement qualification (e.g. MCIPS).
* Proven experience managing end-to-end tender processes.
* Strong drafting skills for procurement documentation.
* Ability to advise staff at all levels on procurement best practices.
* Familiarity with public procurement frameworks and preferred supplier lists.
* Practical experience in policy development and improvement.
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Sector & Systems Knowledge
* Experience in Higher Education, broader education, or not-for-profit sectors.
* In-depth understanding of procurement legislation (PCR 2015, Procurement Act 2023, Remedies Directive).
* Knowledge of change management and best practice in HE procurement.
* Proficient in systems such as Agresso, iTrent, and MS Office.
* Experience with procurement software and automation tools.
Please note:
Due to the high level of response, not all applicants will be contacted. If your CV is shortlisted, you will be kept informed throughout the recruitment process. Applicants must have full UK right to work to be considered for this role.
Please also be advised that Hybrid working is non-negotiable, candidates must be able to commute to the London Campus at least two days per week.