Contract Type: Interim (3 months)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Dorset Hybrid (2 days per week in the office; some negotiation possible)
Immediate
Experience Required: Local government procurement + Highways/Transport essential

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Interim Senior Procurement Officer to lead urgent and complex procurements across Highways and Transport. You will support the delivery of high‑value contracts covering public and school transport, operational highways services, and major framework agreements. This role requires a strong understanding of local government procurement within a Place‑based context.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end procurement activity for transport and highway contracts
• Ensure compliance with UK public procurement regulations, the Procurement Act 2023, and local authority standing orders
• Prepare tender documentation and support supplier engagement
• Manage evaluation processes and contract award
• Advise stakeholders on procurement strategy, risk, and compliance
• Support the development of frameworks and dynamic purchasing systems
• Maintain accurate audit‑ready records
• Provide expert procurement guidance to internal teams

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in public sector procurement, ideally within a local authority
• Strong knowledge of UK procurement legislation and NEC contract forms
• Experience delivering multiple high‑priority projects at pace
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills
• Ability to adapt quickly and operate in a fast‑moving environment
• Immediate availability

Desirable

• MCIPS or equivalent qualification
• Experience with e‑tendering and contract management systems

Working Conditions

• Hybrid working model
• Minimum 2 days per week in the Dorset office