Salary: £35,745-£36,648
Hours: 37 hours
Location Cumbria House, Carlisle
Contract: Permanent
About us:
Cumberland Council is an ambitious and forward-thinking authority dedicated to shaping a better future for our communities. We are passionate about creating a vibrant future by addressing inequalities, creating thriving economies that work for our residents and protecting our environment.
At the core of our vision is a commitment to our people, with health and well-being being integral to everything we do, underscoring every initiative and ensuring we provide unparalleled support for all.
We can’t do it without you! Come and embark on the journey to a vibrant future with us, where the work you do will make a real impact. Together, let's shape a community that's as dynamic and inclusive as our landscape. Be a part of the transformation!
#WeAreCumberland
About this opportunity:
Are you a skilled procurement professional with experience in the public sector? Would you like to be part of a central function delivering advice, guidance, and support to colleagues?Then this could be the opportunity for you.
You should be commercially astute and welcome the changes and opportunities that the new Procurement Act and Provider Selection Regimes bring.
This is a varied role where you will collaborate with commissioners and technical leads across the council, working with them to determine how best value can be achieved and social value generated, in a legally compliant way. Experience should include leading on tenders, experience in the use of e-tendering systems and adept at contract management.
The right candidate(s) will have a proactive approach with excellent customer service skills. They will have strong organisational, planning and administration skills.
key responsibilities:
This role covers the Procurement and Contract Management (and Commissioning of traditional corporate Goods and Services) for the following areas:
To support the Procurement Leads and the wider Unit team, to deliver an effective and efficient complex corporate programme of tender exercises on behalf of the Cumberland Council, in accordance with Public Contract Regulations 2015, The Procurement Act 2023, NHS Provider Selection Regime 2023 and the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules; the Sustainable Procurement Strategy and the Council Plan objectives relating to such activities for both Statutory and non Statutory services.
To support in the planning, review delivery of high quality, effective contract management and reporting processes to ensure contract compliance, value for money, achievement of specified targets and monitoring of positive outcomes for service users. This includes financial monitoring (e.g. to achieve monetary rebates, identify savings and ensure accuracy of associated systems) and monitoring against KPI’s and contract outputs.
Who we’re looking for
The ideal candidate will have :
·Minimum NVQ level 3 in Procurement/Supply Chain Management or relevant discipline, and/or significant experience in a similar environment.
·Have an indepth knowledge of working under legislation in this area
·Experience in tendering and contract management processes legal terms and conditions; writing service specifications, identification of KPI’s (to meet strategic and corporate objectives) and the application of Risk Management/mitigations prior to and during the tender process, and the subsequent contract monitoring regimes.
·Significant knowledge of tendering and contract management processes within a statutory organisation and their practical implementation.
·Knowledge and/or experience in the application of the procurement/commissioning cycle
Fundamentally, we are seeking individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change and shape a better future for our communities. Your commitment to these principles will be instrumental in delivering services that are vital to the well-being and prosperity of our residents.
If this sounds like you, then please get in touch!
We believe in cultivating potential over perfection. If this job sounds like you and you resonate with our values we encourage you to apply or contact Nicola.Bell@cumberland.gov.uk or Jacqui.Sullivan@cumberland.gov.uk for an informal chat prior to your application.
What we offer:
*In accordance with the National Joint Council for Local Government Services
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 11th November 2024
Interview date:19th/20th November 2024
Please upload a copy of your CV with your application along with a covering letter detailing why you would be suitable for this role
Our interview process can accommodate both in-person and virtual formats, with tailored options discussed upon invitation to the interview stage. Preferred for virtual interviews is the use of Microsoft Teams, currently available for new users at no cost. However, should you encounter any challenges accessing this technology, we are open to discussing alternative arrangements prior to the scheduled interviews.
DBS N/A
Work-Life balance
Cumberland Council is deeply invested in fostering a work culture that prioritises the well-being and balance of our team members. Embracing flexible and hybrid working models, we empower employees to achieve optimal work-life balance.
Recognising the importance of personal time, we offer a generous holiday allowance, providing ample opportunity for rest and rejuvenation. Additionally, our flexible working hours, including flexitime arrangements, further contribute to a supportive environment where individuals can effectively manage their professional and personal commitments.
Continuing Professional Development
We are committed to nurturing the ongoing growth and professional advancement of our valued team members to fulfil your potential and advance your career. Our comprehensive career development and training offer emphasises continuous learning as a cornerstone for achieving both individual and organisational goals. Through our robust Organisational Development initiatives, we offer a suite of support programmes tailored to meet diverse needs, including participation in our esteemed Aspiring to be a Manager programme and access to our enriching Coaching and Mentoring programmes.
Keeping the people we work with safe
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect unwavering commitment to this cause from our employees, volunteers, and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs). Together, we create a secure environment where every individual is safeguarded and respected.
We welcome applications from everyone
At Cumberland Council, we are dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce, striving to mirror the rich tapestry of the communities we proudly serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are devoted in fostering an inclusive, supportive culture that embraces and appreciates our unique differences.
As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we ensure that applicants with disabilities, meeting the essential criteria for this position, are guaranteed an interview as part of our commitment to equal opportunities. Your diverse perspectives and talents contribute to our collective success.
We're also an Age Friendly Employer, meaning we commit to providing an inclusive workplace for people in their 50s and 60s and taking the necessary action to help them flourish in a multigenerational workforce. We recognise the importance of mature workers and aim to provide an environment on which they can thrive.
Reasonable Adjustments: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know on; Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. We will ensure that these adjustments are made to accommodate your needs.
Your Voice Matters; Connect, Engage, and Make Your Voice Heard!
We don't just encourage engagement—we celebrate it. That's why we've cultivated a vibrant community of staff networking groups where every voice matters.
These groups are more than just forums—they're hubs of innovation and inclusion, dedicated to sparking fresh ideas, challenging the status quo, and championing equality and fairness for all. From exploring new perspectives to shaping policies that reflect our diverse workforce, our staff networks play a pivotal role in driving positive change.
Join us and become part of something bigger:
Please read the supporting information:
Post Specification
Role Profile