Position: Interim Head of Procurement

Location: High Street, Gosport, PO12 1EB

Start Date: ASAP       

Contract Duration: 6+ Months (hybrid)

Working Hours: 37 hours per week, 09:00-17:00

Pay Rate: £ 300.00 Per Day

Job Reference: (phone number removed)

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a highly experienced procurement leader with strong knowledge of UK procurement legislation, governance, and public sector processes. You will be confident leading teams, managing high-value procurement activity, and advising senior stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Procurement and Insurance function, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Oversee complex, high-value procurement projects from strategy through to delivery.

Provide expert advice on procurement law, governance, and best practice to senior stakeholders.

Ensure all procurement activity aligns with Contract Procedure Rules (CPRs) and delivers value for money.

Manage and develop the Procurement & Insurance team, including performance, recruitment, and training.

Act as the Council's Insurance Officer, ensuring appropriate cover, risk mitigation, and value for money.

Maintain and manage procurement systems, including the procurement portal and contract register.

Oversee tender evaluations and ensure fair, compliant, and transparent processes.

Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with corporate objectives.

Deliver training and guidance to staff across the organisation on procurement processes and legislation.

Prepare and present reports to senior leadership, committees, and boards.

Represent the Council at external meetings and forums.

Ensure accurate record keeping and audit trails across all procurement activities.

Person Specification

Must Have

Significant experience in a senior procurement role, ideally within the public sector.

Strong knowledge of UK procurement legislation and regulations.

Proven experience managing complex, high-value procurement projects.

Experience leading and developing teams, including performance management.

Strong stakeholder management skills, including advising senior leadership.

Experience ensuring compliance with governance frameworks and contract procedures.

Financial and commercial awareness, including budget management.

Excellent communication skills, including report writing and presentations.

Experience managing procurement systems and maintaining audit trails.

Nice to Have

Experience within a local authority environment.

Professional procurement qualification (e.g. CIPS or equivalent).

Experience managing insurance services or acting as an Insurance Officer.

Familiarity with Contract Procedure Rules (CPRs) in a council setting.

Experience contributing to policy development and organisational strategy.

Previous involvement in regional procurement or insurance forums.

DISCLAIMER: By applying for this vacancy, you consent to your personal information being shared with our client and any relevant third parties we engage with, for the purpose of assessing your suitability specific organizations or hireSrs to whom you do not wish your details to be disclosed