Senior Procurement Specialist

Digital Catapult has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Procurement Specialist to join the Procurement Team. The team are responsible for, and the role will involve all aspects of procurement compliance for fully regulated procurements under the public contracts’ regulations (“FTS”), as well as sub-threshold procurements. This includes initial advice to business partners on which process to use, through to running the process and award. They will also proactively liaise with department managers to provide procurement training, support, and pre-empt their procurement needs and provide recommendations on procurement solutions for their consideration (e.g. establishing framework agreements). Formal documentation of policies, processes and procedures to meet ISO9000 requirements is also within scope as the company continues to grow.

WHAT YOU’LL DO (Duties)

• Conduct and manage procurements in accordance with Digital Catapult and PCR/FTS regulated procedures.
• Conduct tenders and undertake end to end procurement activities.
• Development of procurement templates, processes, and documents.
• Supporting the business with facilitation and administration of procurement activity using an e-procurement portal.
• Collate management information to report to the wider Procurement Department and in preparation for internal/external audits.
• The review and approval of requisitions, ensuring spend is compliant and aligned with the company’s procurement governance.
• Problem solving relating to procuring alternative suppliers for financial / delivery reasons.
• Provide guidance and training to internal departments during procurement processes.

Requirements

• Demonstrable knowledge and experience of UK public procurement law and practice.
• Prior work experience in a Procurement role in the public or private sector with demonstrable experience of providing specialist advice and identifying / managing procurement related risks.
• A good understanding of public sector procurement regulations, internal policies, and procedures, to educate the wider business areas and adopt commercial best practice. Knowledge of common e-tendering tools and services are advantageous.
• CIPS qualification is desirable but not essential.
• Experience of solving complex issues through analysis, definition of a clear way forward and ensuring buy in.
• Strong attention to detail, organisation, communication and interpersonal skills (both verbal and written) including influencing, negotiation skills and relationship building.
• High level of integrity/confidentiality and ability to work independently as part of a professional team.
• High level of computer literacy, especially excellent MS Excel/Word skills.
• Focus on customer satisfaction with strong stakeholder management skills.

Deadline for Applications: 26th July 2024

Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society. We are part of the Catapult network and we are actively committed to our Inclusivity in Innovation Charter, about which you can find out more here.

We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated.

As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process.

Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.

Benefits

• We are in the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
• Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.
• Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year:
• Double-matched pension up to 10% of your salary;
• 4% of your salary to use towards selecting benefits that work for you, including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance; buying holiday, topping up your pension;
• E-Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As you Earn; PerkPal;
• Life insurance 4x salary;
• Free to access EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice;
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave;
• Hybrid working - with great offices to work from 1-3 days per week;
• Investment in your ongoing learning and development with us;
• Company social events throughout the year and free office snacks!

We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared.

We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness.

We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.