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.

 
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