We’re looking for a strong, visible, and inspirational commercial leader to join us at Powys County Council. The successful applicant will play a key role in supporting all areas of the Council in striving to make Powys a Stronger, Fairer, and Greener county. Your focus will be on providing advice to senior managers and elected members on procurement and commercial matters, whilst also leading a small team of procurement and commercial experts.

This is a flexible worker position, and the Council offers the opportunity to work in an agile way, including home working. However, there will be an expectation to work at County Hall in Llandrindod Wells for key meetings and events, usually once or twice a month.

About the role:

You will provide effective leadership on procurement and commercial matters, leading a team that acts as an enabling function to help service area teams achieve their strategic commissioning aims and secure operational, financial, and social value objectives. You will drive procurement effectiveness, support commissioning strategy development, and improve Contract Management skills and practices.

The successful applicant will navigate the political climate, support councillors in decision-making, and understand potential supply chain risks. The role will promote and support the ongoing improvement agenda, ensuring improved commercial outcomes and compliance with the Procurement Act 2023 and future UK and Welsh procurement legislation. You will lead a highly regarded, award-winning Commercial Services Team, supporting service leads with high-quality procurement and commercial support.

About you:

We seek a MCIPS qualified procurement professional with public sector experience and a proven track record of delivering commercial improvement. You will have at least five years’ experience in the public sector, be skilled at driving high standards, and identifying value for money. You should be capable of maintaining a strong, effective performance culture and navigating a complex political environment working with elected Members.

About Powys:

Powys is a great place to work and live, with beautiful landscapes, open spaces, and vibrant communities. Known for events like the Hay and Green Man festivals and the Royal Welsh Show, it offers numerous outdoor activities for wildlife enthusiasts, walkers, mountain bikers, and horse riders. The area also has a range of sports clubs and a strong community spirit, promoting well-being and supportive neighborhoods.

We offer an excellent work-life balance with benefits including a competitive salary, generous annual leave, development opportunities, a relocation package, and more.

This position requires an Enhanced DBS Check.