Procurement Specialist FTC

Procurement Specialist – 12 month FTC

Bedford

Monday – Friday 37.5 hrs

£45,000

We are looking for a proactive and analytical Procurement Specialist to support the delivery of a compliant, value-driven procurement function. Reporting to the Head of Procurement, the successful candidate will play a key role in delivering procurement activities, strengthening governance and compliance, and enhancing the use of data to support decision-making.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a more data-driven approach to procurement, helping to improve value for money, manage risk effectively, and embed best practice across the organisation. Working closely with stakeholders across the business, the Procurement Specialist will provide expert procurement support while promoting social and environmental value.

The ideal candidate will have experience working in a procurement or commercial role within a regulated, public sector, housing, or similar environment.

• Coordinate and support the full procurement lifecycle, from sourcing and tender processes through to contract award and implementation.
• Ensure all purchasing activities are conducted in line with applicable regulations, organisational procedures, and industry best practices.
• Act as a trusted advisor to colleagues and stakeholders, providing clear guidance on procurement and commercial matters.
• Review and interpret spend data, supplier information, contract performance metrics, and compliance records to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Produce management reports, performance dashboards, and assurance documentation to support decision-making by senior leaders and governance bodies.
• Drive value for money by applying commercial analysis and evaluating procurement outcomes effectively.
• Promote the incorporation of social value, environmental sustainability, and responsible procurement principles within sourcing activities.
• Support the identification, evaluation, and management of procurement and commercial risks.
• Assist in overseeing supplier relationships and contract performance, ensuring issues and risks are identified and addressed proactively.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate contract records, ensuring key information, pricing details, and supporting documentation are current.
• Coordinate contract extension and renewal activities, including the preparation and review of relevant documentation.
• Undertake supplier due diligence checks and verification processes to support compliant onboarding and risk management.

• Experience working in a procurement or commercial role within a regulated, public sector, housing, or similar environment.
• A good understanding of procurement legislation, governance, and compliance requirements, including knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023.
• Experience supporting or leading procurement exercises from planning through to contract award.
• Experience using data, reporting, and management information to support decision-making.
• An understanding of value for money, social value, sustainability, and risk management within procurement.

• CIPS qualified or actively working towards a professional procurement qualification.
• Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience.

• Strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights.
• The ability to apply procurement knowledge in a practical, proportionate, and compliant manner.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• A proactive and adaptable approach, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to governance, assurance, and compliance.