Operations and Procurement Manager

Trust Operations and Procurement Manager

Operations & Procurement Manager

Northampton Primary Academy Trust (NPAT)
Headlands, with travel across our schools Northamptonshire & Milton Keynes
5 days per week (40–42 weeks) or full-time considered
Scale K32–K36 | FTE Salary: £42,839 – £47,181

Help build a sustainable future for education through smarter operations, procurement and partnership working!

Northampton Primary Academy Trust (NPAT) is seeking to appoint an experienced, proactive and highly organised Operations & Procurement Manager to join our Central Team.

Reporting to the Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO), this key role will work closely with the Trust Financial Controller, Trust Estates Manager and colleagues across the Trust to ensure the smooth, safe and compliant operation of our schools and central services.

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled operational professional with strong procurement and contract management experience who is passionate about delivering high-quality support services within a values-driven educational environment.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead and oversee all Trust-wide procurement activity
• Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned to Trust priorities
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts to ensure value for money
• Oversee procurement and contract management for key services including IT, MIS systems, catering and estates-related contracts
• Maintain robust contract registers and compliance records across all schools
• Provide procurement guidance, training and support to colleagues across the Trust

• Support the delivery of effective and compliant operational services across the Trust
• Ensure operational practices meet statutory, regulatory and governance requirements
• Support Trust-wide insurance arrangements and business continuity planning
• Monitor operational budgets and identify opportunities for efficiencies and cost savings
• Maintain awareness of sector legislation, guidance and best practice

• Identify and develop income generation opportunities and traded services
• Lead on funding bids and grant applications
• Support the Trust’s financial sustainability through strategic partnerships and external funding opportunities

• Support compliance with Health & Safety policies and governance requirements
• Coordinate Health & Safety training and awareness activities
• Proactively identify and manage operational risks

• Support the operational management and procurement of Trust-wide IT systems and digital platforms
• Work collaboratively with schools and central teams to improve digital processes and operational efficiency

• Lead operational improvement projects across the Trust
• Produce high-quality reports for Trust leaders and governance committees
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience in procurement, operations or contract management
• Demonstrates excellent organisational and project management skills
• Has strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Can analyse data and identify opportunities for improvement and efficiencies
• Understands compliance, governance and risk management processes
• Is proactive, solution-focused and able to work collaboratively across multiple sites
• Ideally has experience within education, public sector or multi-academy trust environments

At NPAT, we are committed to providing outstanding education and support for our schools and communities. You will join a collaborative and ambitious Trust where your contribution will directly support the success and sustainability of our schools

Closing Date: 22 nd June 2026

Start Date: 1 st September 2026 (earlier if available)

Location Northampton Primary Academy Trust, Bushland Road, Northampton NN3 2NS
, UK