Assistant Procurement Manager

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
Under the direction of the Head of Procurement, let and administer contracts for the purchase of goods, works or services and to let and manage Dynamic Purchasing Systems, contracts, and framework agreements to meet University requirements ensuring compliance with legal, University and funding council requirements achieving best value.

Administrating Dynamic Purchasing Systems and framework agreements to ensure compliance with Public Contracts Regulations.

Working closely with Procurement Managers, you will have a high degree of integrity, self-motivation, initiative and drive, and the ability to demonstrate professional resilience.

For all information enquiries please contact ola.smith@newcastle.ac.uk.

Interviews will be held on 14 November 2025.

Key Accountabilities

• To administer the letting and management of Dynamic Purchasing Systems, framework agreements, research, capital equipment, services contracts and compiling tender documents.
• To manage the tender process including issuing tenders, supplier management, tender receipt and opening, tender assessment and evaluation, post tender clarification and negotiations, ongoing contract management.
• To administer Dynamic Purchasing Systems and framework agreements to ensure that they meet the needs of the University and ensure compliance.
• To assist and support the creation of detailed specifications for the University’s contract requirements and to compile contract documentation to meet the requirements.
• To manage contracts to ensure the supplier conforms to the contract and will carry out audits of the supplier producing audit reports.
• To negotiate with suppliers to achieve best value for the University and to resolve conflicts and disagreements. For example, the post holder is expected to carry out negotiations on a range of issues including price reductions to obtain the best possible resolution for the University considering the legal implications and responsibilities of the final agreement.
• To aid Procurement Managers on RFQs, ITTs, reporting, existing framework agreements, best purchasing practice, financial directives, purchasing procedures, funding source purchasing rules, Public Contracts Regulations and National Audit Office guidelines to ensure compliance. For example, the post holder is expected to meet University colleagues on a regular basis to determine their requirements and develop a procurement plan and strategies to meet those requirements.
• The post holder will represent the University at meetings, seminars and exhibitions etc. including Regional Consortium Commodity Group Meetings and National Agreement Groups.
• To act as a deputy for Procurement Managers during periods of absence as required to ensure continuity of service.
• Act as an advocate for the function.
• To provide administrative support to a busy University central support function, to ensure the smooth operation of the Procurement service.

Qualifications

• Educated to Degree level or equivalent in business studies or business management.
• It is desirable that you have gained or are studying towards Level 4 (Diploma) Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).

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