The Role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Procurement Manager to play a pivotal role in delivering best value and robust governance across the College. This is a senior, hands-on role with responsibility for leading major tendering and contract renewal projects, advising budget holders on compliant routes to market, and acting as the central point of contact for procurement advice and support. You will ensure procurement activity meets regulatory and financial requirements, oversee contract and spend management, and lead the Purchase Ledger team to deliver accurate, timely payments and reconciliations, supporting strong financial control and audit compliance across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Leading on major tendering projects, identifying best routes to market, assisting budget holders with their requirements, producing tender documentation, performing tender evaluations and finalising contract awards.

To act as the main point of contact for procurement across the College, offering assistance, support and advice to College budget-holders in respect of best value solutions together with the College Procurement Procedures and Policies.

The forward planning of contract renewals, managing and running mini tenders/competitions, always ensuring compliance of procurement and regulatory frameworks.

To ensure that the central Contracts Database is regularly maintained and the monitoring of spend against contracts awarded is reported periodically.

To ensure that records of quotations/tenders are appropriately and accurately maintained, filed and retained.

To manage the College’s Purchase Ledger team, training and deploying staff to ensure consistent cover for all key tasks in the area.

Qualifications

Grade C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent) - Essential

CIPS Level 5 (or working towards) - Essential (to progress past point 3)

A commitment to undertake any mandatory training relevant to the role - Essential

Knowledge & Skills:

Knowledge of Computerised Purchasing, Requisition and Financial Recording systems

Knowledge of Procurement best practice and frameworks

Knowledge of Public Sector procurement including the Procurement Act 2023

Ability to manage and motivate other staff

Experience:

Experience in a similar procurement role, including the management and awarding of contracts

Experience of supervising and the performance management of staff

Experience of working in a busy office environment

Experience of working in the education sector - desirable