Buyer & Procurement Compliance Officer

About the job

Interview Date - Week Commencing 7 April 2025

Join the University of Northampton's procurement team to support the Procurement Manager in implementing and delivering our procurement strategy. You'll manage over £45 million in non-pay expenditure, ensuring best value for money, sustainable procurement, and social enterprise engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Procurement Manager in evolving and implementing the procurement strategy.
• Provide strategic leadership and continuously improve procurement processes.
• Ensure compliance with UON Financial Regulations and Public Contracts Regulations.
• Manage tender processes and supplier negotiations to achieve best value.
• Prepare management information on procurement performance.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and senior management.
• Promote sustainable procurement practices and social enterprise engagement.
• Collaborate with trade bodies, professional institutions, and government departments.
• Train internal stakeholders on best procurement practices.
• Manage key supplier relationships and performance.

About you

The ideal candidate will have;

• Extensive expertise in procurement and best practices.
• Proven leadership and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Knowledge of financial regulations and public contracts.
• Commitment to sustainable procurement and social impact.

Qualifications

Desirable;

• Educated to A Level standard or equivalent 
• CIPS (Level 3 minimum)

Department

The Finance & Planning team is responsible for the provision of wide range of financial services across the University, including procurement, budgeting, financial planning and analysis, accounting, treasury and cash management, the management of income, accounts payable and credit control services.  The Finance and Planning team strive to support the University’s strategic objectives by ensuring financial stability and providing accurate and timely financial information to internal and external stakeholders.  The Procurement team are responsible for managing the acquisition of goods and services across the University, supporting its strategic objectives and operational requirements.

We have a committed team who deliver exceptional, sector leading services, which in turn support, facilitate and improve the student and staff experience, Transforming Lives and Inspiring Change.

About us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People
Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points-based immigration system are met. Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria, we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time. 

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON
Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON