Are you an experienced procurement professional ready to make a real impact in the NHS? We are seeking a Senior Procurement & Contracts Adviser to help shape procurement excellence across our vital mental health and learning disability services.

As a Senior Procurement and Contracts Adviser, you'll lead a portfolio of compliant procurement projects, ensuring compliance with UK Procurement legislation while delivering value for money and wider social value benefits. You will develop and implement procurement strategies across categories such as ICT, estates and facilities, and corporate services, providing informed commercial advice.

This role requires demonstrable experience in tendering public sector contracts (£500k+) across various categories, with in-depth knowledge of UK procurement legislation, strong commercial acumen, and excellent communication skills.

Join a supportive, forward-thinking team offering hybrid working, opportunities to lead collaborative projects across Kent, and a chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care. The role is full-time, with flexible working considered (minimum one day a week in the office).

Please note that due to urgent recruitment needs and financial constraints, we are unable to provide sponsorship.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead and deliver compliant procurement projects from initiation to contract award, including high-value contracts, utilizing routes such as tendering, framework mini-competitions, and quotations.
2. Develop tender documentation, evaluation criteria, and contract terms in line with UK legislation.
3. Provide expert advice on contract disputes and supplier negotiations.
4. Identify and deliver cost savings, social value, and net zero benefits.
5. Analyze spend data to inform planning and risk mitigation.
6. Support procurement governance and embed best practices.
7. Build strong stakeholder relationships.
8. Supervise and mentor junior staff.
9. Represent the Trust in collaborative procurement initiatives.
10. Ensure compliance with policies, financial instructions, and legislation.

Come work with us in Kent, where we combine professional development with a high quality of life. We are Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust, serving 1.8 million people, rated 'Good' by the CQC, caring for thousands annually, and embracing diversity across our workforce.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from diverse backgrounds and under-represented communities.

Full role details are available in the attached Job Description & Person Specification PDF.