Your New Organisation:
Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.
Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Your new role:
Southend on Sea City Council is seeking a Procurement Advisor to join the Procurement team on a full time, permanent basis. This role is offered on a hybrid basis, combining remote working with occasional office visit. As a Procurement Advisor, you will support Council departments in procuring goods, services, and works in accordance with Public Contract Regulations 2015, Provider Selection Regime (January 24), Procurement Act (February 25) and Council policies.
You will partner with contract managers to ensure effective contract performance management by:
- Conducting regular review meetings
- Reviewing performance and service levels (KPI’s and SLA’s)
- Identifying innovation and implementing continuous improvements.
While the role is primarily remote, you will be expected to attend monthly team meetings in Southend. We maintain a supportive and inclusive work environment, with flexible working arrangements to help you balance your professional and personal life. Our Team Charter guides our collaborative and supportive work culture.
What you'll need to succeed:
To be successful in this role, you should have proven experience in procurement, preferably within the public sector, and a strong knowledge of public procurement legislation and best practices. Excellent negotiation and communication skills, along with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively, are essential. Proficiency in procurement software (such as ProContract or other e-tendering systems) and Microsoft Office Suite is required. A CIPS qualification or equivalent experience is highly desirable. Membership in the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) or progress towards it, or relevant professional experience, is necessary.
What you'll get in return:
When you join the Council, you can enjoy a range of benefits, including 25 days of annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training and development opportunities. We are committed to supporting you in this varied and challenging role with appropriate training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.
What you need to do now:
If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.
If you would like a copy of either the Job Description please click here
Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.
The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.