Procurement Business Partner

The Procurement Team are responsible for managing the process of acquiring goods, services, or works from external third parties. The current Procurement structure includes Indirect, Production, Chemicals, Infrastructure, IT and Capital Delivery. We manage a range of contracts, frameworks and catalogues covering PPE, chemicals, infrastructure components, consultancy to complex major civil engineering works via capital investment projects. The primary goal of the Procurement team is to ensure that the organisation obtains the necessary resources at the best possible value, taking into consideration factors such as quality, cost, delivery time, and supplier relationships.,

• Support Procurement Manager and Senior Business Partner for effective Business Partnering, aiding decision-making and strategy.


• Monitor and report on ongoing tender/contract negotiations, preventing lapses without action.


• Report on procurement efficiency targets, collaborating with Business Partnering team for organization-wide communication.


• Prepare detailed papers for Exec/Board on procurement processes, utilizing concise data and analysis.


• Ensure accurate documentation of procurement activities, maintaining transparent audit trails for regulatory compliance.


• Accountable for achieving prescribed procurement efficiencies outlined in the budget process.


• Drive value for money in all procurement processes, including tenders, frameworks, quotations, benchmarking, and negotiations.


• Work closely with stakeholders to develop and adhere to an up-to-date framework and contract negotiation timetable.


• Proactively identify and communicate risks and opportunities in the supply chain and business.


• Support business in ensuring end-to-end supply chain compliance with Modern Slavery Act and GDPR.


• Drive continuous review of end-to-end supply chain to identify efficiencies and formulate cost-saving strategies.


• Ensure adherence to UCR and Financial regulations, working towards process efficiency improvements.


• Support reporting on non-compliance related to procurement and finance processes.
  
  Experience of working in a Procurement/Commercial function, with 5 years desirable but not essential


• A Valid UK Driving License


• Demonstrated experience in successfully managing a diverse portfolio of frameworks and contracts relating to works, goods, and services to mitigate the risk of breach notices or contract lapses, ensuring the stability of the business.


• Full understanding of Procurement legislation including Utilities Contract Regulation (UCR), desirable but not essential - training can be provided.


• Good understanding of conventional contracts terms and conditions used procurement functions.


• The ability to self-manage and work under own initiative; strong attention to detail, report writing skills, and effective communication with stakeholders.


• Working within a team delivering procurement led efficiency / savings targets.


• Extensive experience of cross functionally working within a business to support a value for money mind-set in procurement.


• Business Partnering experience within a business, ideally with examples of influencing procurement strategy.


• Experience and confidence in Contract and Legal reviews of contract documentation to support stakeholders.


• Knowledge of the NEC contract is desirable but not essential.


• Strong emphasis on people and relationship building skills.


• Advanced negotiating and influencing skills.


• High level of business acumen and knowledge of procurement legislation and processes
  
  At South Staffs Water, we deliver clean and reliable water supplies to around 1.7million customers within the South Staffs and Cambridge regions. As a water-only company, providing clean, healthy water 24 hours a day, 365 days a year is at the very heart of what we do, and that's where you come.
  
  Company pension with employer contributions.


• Store discount for personal shopping needs.


• 24 hour helpline providing free and confidential advice to you and your family on financial, legal, marital and health


• 25 days holiday (plus 8 bank holidays)


• Free on-site parking