Procurement Officer

Description:

The Central Procurement Office (CPO) at the University of Manchester is seeking a Procurement Officer to join its professional team. This role is ideal for newly qualified or part-qualified procurement professionals (MCIPS) or individuals with equivalent relevant experience looking to advance their careers in a dynamic and diverse environment.

As a Procurement Officer, you will:

• Manage procurement activities, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, policies, and best practices.

• Conduct market appraisals, tendering, contract improvements, and supplier rationalization to optimize spending.

• Provide strategic guidance and operational support across various procurement categories.

• Work collaboratively with university departments to ensure value for money, risk management, and financial sustainability.

• Lead and support procurement projects, ensuring transparent and efficient tendering and contract management.

• Drive social value outcomes through procurement strategies and processes.

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

• Analyze and interpret spending data to identify cost-saving opportunities.

• Ensure compliance with procurement regulations while adapting to industry best practices.

Requirements:

• Experience in procurement within a large, diverse, and decentralized organization.

• Strong understanding of value-for-money principles, procurement regulations, and contract management.

• Ability to work independently and within a team, effectively managing multiple procurement activities.

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and finance systems.

• Experience in UK public procurement and framework agreements is advantageous but not essential.

Why Join the University of Manchester?

• Work for a prestigious Russell Group university ranked among the top in the world.

• Competitive benefits package, including:

  • 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

  • Additional Christmas and New Year closure.

  • Access to an employee assistance program for physical, mental, and financial well-being.

  • Leading pension schemes, staff discounts, travel season ticket loans, and workplace nursery.

• Career development opportunities in a well-established team.

• Hybrid working model (minimum two days on campus).

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: Midnight on the closing date

• Invitation to Interview: 25/04/2025

• Interview Date: 07/05/2025