Overview

Role: Interim Senior Procurement Specialist — Location: Mostly remote, up to 1 day a week in London. Start Date: Immediate/ ASAP. On behalf of our client, an independent public service advisory organisation, we are recruiting an Interim Senior Procurement Specialist to support several procurement exercises for a range of services. The successful candidate will deliver hands-on procurement while providing trusted advisory input, advising on structure and pricing of procurements and contracts and conducting core activities.

You will lead the delivery of multiple procurement projects, ensure compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (and upcoming reforms) and provide a robust audit trail. You will offer expert advice to stakeholders on procurement approach, documentation and risk, and support contract finalisation and mobilisation as procurements conclude. Familiarity with PCR 2015 is essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end procurement process for a range of digital, IT and AI services, from scoping and market engagement through to contract award and monitoring.
• Draft and coordinate tender documentation including ITTs, evaluation criteria, contract terms and schedules.
• Ensure the rapid completion of procurement from initial ideas through to award.
• Run competitions in line with organisational procurement policies, using Find a Tender and, where appropriate, CCS frameworks.
• Negotiate contracts to ensure value for money and put in place contract schedules and processes.
• Provide advice and assurance to senior colleagues on procurement strategy, risks, and compliance.
• Liaise with relevant colleagues to ensure consistent and advantageous contract terms and governance.
• Maintain accurate records to meet audit and transparency requirements.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure requirements are well defined and fit for purpose.
• Proven experience of running multiple public sector procurements end-to-end.

Essential Skills and experience

• Detailed knowledge of relevant legislation and public procurement best practice.
• Excellent drafting skills for tender documentation and contracts.
• Ability to engage and influence stakeholders, translating requirements into clear specifications.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to deliver to tight deadlines.
• Commercial acumen and ability to spot risks, pricing issues, unfair contract terms, and supplier challenges.
• Experience in a small government department or non-departmental government body.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Contract

Job function

• Purchasing and Strategy/Planning

Industries

• Government Administration