Head of Procurement and Commercial Services

As a key member of the Financial Services Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the Procurement and Commercial Services team (a multi-disciplinary service, including procurement practitioners, contract managers, commercial lawyers, commercial accountants and data analysts). You will provide strategic leadership across the Council's complex public sector procurements, contract management and commercial activity. You will ensure that efficient, innovative and value-driven procurement and contract management arrangements are in place, aligned to the Council's Business Plan objective to increase efficiency.

You will lead the council's procurement category management function, determine procurement policy (subject to member approval), and hold responsibility for Contracts Procedure Rules under the Council's scheme of delegation. You will also act as an authorised signatory to contracts entered into by the authority. The post holder will oversee a procurement portfolio of approximately £1bn in annual spend and drive the development of a procurement and commercial centre of excellence.

You will provide commercial support to the council in respect of all areas of activity (including the council's trading companies and partnerships), and support the development of income generation opportunities. You will also lead complex regional projects/procurements.

• Lead and develop the Council's approach to procurement and commercial services, including strategy, category management and policy.
• Advise and consult with elected members and senior stakeholders on procurement opportunities, commercial issues and social value.
• Establish a robust framework of corporate procurement arrangements that maximise value for money and ensure consistent practice across the Council and the region.
• Provide strategic leadership in risk management, contract management, funding opportunities, and commercial support across the authority.
• Represent Leeds regionally and nationally on key procurement matters, promoting best practice and raising the Council's profile.
• Provide strategic and operational leadership for contract management across the Council, ensuring all contracts deliver value for money, comply with the Council's Contract Procedure Rules, and support high-quality service delivery.
• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the council's portfolio of PFI contracts, including development of a council-wide PFI expiry strategy.
• Manage and motivate a high‑performing multi‑disciplinary workforce, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and innovation.
• Ensure effective governance, financial compliance, safeguarding and risk management across all procurement and commercial activities.
• Champion diversity, inclusion and fairness.
• Work collaboratively, communicate effectively and build strong partnerships.
• Model ethical, professional and accountable leadership at all times.

• Degree level or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject.
• Full membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (MCIPS) or an appropriate professional qualification.
• Contract management certification (e.g. Government Commercial College, IACCM) or extensive practical experience.
• Minimum three years’ senior level experience within a procurement and commercial setting.
• Strong experience of shaping strategic priorities with senior management and building productive relationships with elected politicians, senior officers, trade unions and partner organisations.
• Demonstrate the ability to lead cultural and organisational change, develop innovative approaches, and deliver high‑quality, value‑for‑money procurement and commercial solutions.
• Comprehensive knowledge of local, regional and national issues influencing the city and council policy and practice, and strategy within Procurement and Commercial Services.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Experience of working with senior management to shape and influence the delivery of the council's strategic priorities at a city, directorate and service level.
• Substantial experience in building credible and effective collaborative…