The procurement team are responsible for ensuring that all procurement and contract management activities (commercial arrangements) provide the very best value for money for the council. We provide professional advice, guidance and insight regarding markets, suppliers, and contractual options to help support service delivery and improvement. We are a well-respected and award-winning service with a reputation for excellence. Joining us, you will be inspired by new opportunities and the exposure and experience to develop your skills professionally. You will join a highly experienced and collaborative team and will be supported to work in a commercially minded fashion, building excellent working relationships with colleagues across the organisation, all united in their motivation to deliver the best outcomes for our council.

For more information about our procurement service, visit our Procurement opportunities page

Role summary…

You will have overall responsibility for an allocated category of spend (approx. £250m) and will lead creation of a sourcing strategy for that category. You will develop and implement a sourcing strategy that aligns with the council’s procurement strategy, including the delivery of procurement and contracting requirements across different directorates. You will Manage a team of specialist procurement and contract management staff who are themselves middle managers, ensuring their accountability for the service strategy and plan. As a centre of expertise for procurement and contract management, you will provide effective leadership, support and advice. This role is of key importance in delivering our procurement vision:  Working collaboratively to deliver efficiencies, value for money and sustainable quality through a proactive commercial approach to procurement and commissioning for the communities of North Yorkshire.   

Duties and responsibilities…

·         Working with the Head of Procurement to develop team plans and achieve agreed category objectives

·         Lead a team of procurement and contract management specialists

·         Coordinating the procurement and contracts program for external suppliers

·         Manage high-profile and complex procurements from inception to operational handover

·         Keep abreast of supplier market developments

·         Support future strategy and policy development

·         Identifying challenges and develop innovative solutions

·         Lead the implementation of innovative market approaches

·         Managing complex procurement issues and mitigating associated risks

·         Providing training and development opportunities for the team

·         Collaborating with internal stakeholders to identify savings and efficiencies

·         Develop strategic relationships with various stakeholders

·         Addressing feedback and managing stakeholder relationships effectively

Experience/ Qualifications:

·         Full CIPS qualification

·         Leadership experience in delivering challenging outcomes

·         Senior Management achievements in complex organisations

·         In depth knowledge of procurement legislation, including Public Contract Regulations 2015

·         Understanding of public sector purchasing and relevant environments

·         Experience in procuring and managing various categories typical to local authorities

·         Extensive knowledge of e-tendering systems and procurement processes

·         Extensive understanding of the procurement life cycle, including market analysis, relationship management and complex commercial negotiating

·         Proven track record of driving improvements and achieving targets, with a demonstrable high-performance history

·         Experienced in the co-ordination, collation, analysis and reporting of complex information from numerous sources to diverse audiences

·         Excellent people management ability, with a strong record of leading teams to success through your development and motivation

·         Strong communicator, with the ability to write guidance, reports and presentations

·         Track record of developing and maintaining effective working relationships

What we can offer…

The service has embraced modern work practices, enabling colleagues to work from home, as well as coming together as a team for development, connection and collaboration two days a week. You will be provided with technology to enable efficient and effective work, ensuring that you are connected and well supported. You are provided with a comprehensive benefits package with an excellent employer defined pension scheme, enhance holidays, flexible working to help you thrive at home and well as work.

You will have the full support of the service to enable you to develop both knowledge and skills to help further progress your career.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.