About the role

We are currently looking for a Head of Estates & Facilities Procurement to join our client, an award-winning, high performing, academic institution based in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

As Head of Estates & Facilities Procurement, you will be responsible for all aspects of procurement and purchasing in the Estates and Facilities Category, including the development of category management and the integration of this across the relevant services.

Reporting to the Assistant Director Procurement, you will lead, develop and implement an effective Procurement and Category Management service for the Estates and Facilities Category including:

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a clear Procurement and Category Management strategy for the Estates and Facilities Category.

• Establish appropriate structures and staffing to execute the strategy effectively.

• Ensure the strategy delivers Value for Money benefits, including direct procurement savings and proactive influence on finance and other university activities.

• Provide strategic direction for Major Projects and key sourcing projects, representing Procurement at relevant meetings.

• Ensure compliance with external and internal procurement regulations.

• Contribute to the development of costing and pricing for commercial bids and income/grant-funded projects.

• Collaborate with Finance and university colleagues to control procurement in the planning and delivery of capital works.

• Support the Head of Procurement in managing a customer-focused Procurement team.

• Lead the implementation of relevant audit recommendations in the Estates and Facilities Category.

• Play a key role in the Procurement Management Team, leading the development and delivery of a medium-to-long term Estates and Facilities Category procurement strategy and contributing to the overall university procurement strategy.

Experience:

• Develop and implement a strategic procurement plan with a focus on strategic sourcing strategies and data analysis.

• Lead complex high-value tenders and negotiate supplier contracts for value for money and direct savings.

• Senior team experience in a large, complex organization delivering procurement services.

• Management and development experience of procurement teams, preferably in a matrix organization.

• Implement effective supplier and contract management strategies.

• Build strategic relationships with key stakeholders and be a trusted advisor on procurement and commercial matters.

• Build cost models to support commercial bids.

• Knowledge of current procurement standards and regulations, ensuring compliance.

• Knowledge of UK Higher Education, current policy developments, and the ability to think strategically in the university's context and changing external environment.

Benefits:

• 35 days annual leave + bank holidays

• Excellent employer pension contributions

• Discounted travel

• Nurseries and childcare discounts and vouchers

• Learning and development opportunities

If this role sounds like something you are interested in, click 'apply now' and a member of our team will be in touch!