About this role
Job summary
We are seeking an Assistant Procurement Contract Manager to join our friendly and supportive Procurement Team at South Western Ambulance Service. This is an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse portfolio of goods and services, supporting procurement projects, contract management activities, and value-for-money initiatives that directly contribute to frontline patient care.
Working with stakeholders across the Trust, you will support the delivery of compliant procurement processes, manage contract information, lead on supplier and contract administration, and help ensure the Trust achieves the best possible outcomes from its non-pay expenditure. You will also assist with contract renewals, tendering exercises, supplier performance management, and maintaining the Trust's contract register.
This role would suit someone with experience in procurement, contract management, commercial administration, or supply chain management who enjoys building relationships, solving problems, and working in a fast-paced environment. We offer opportunities for professional development, including support towards CIPS qualifications, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to contribute to projects that make a real difference across the South West.
The Procurement Team currently works on a hybrid basis, with team members working from home and attending Trust Headquarters in Exeter once a fortnight on a Wednesday.
INTERVIEWS WILL TAKE PLACE IN PERSON IN EXETER
Main duties of the job
Supporting and leading procurement activities from initial quotation and tender stages through to contract award and implementation. Managing a portfolio of contracts and suppliers, ensuring effective contract performance, value for money, and delivery of agreed outcomes. Providing procurement advice and guidance to stakeholders across the Trust on the procurement of goods and services. Maintaining and developing the Trust's contract register, procurement records, and supplier information. Supporting supplier performance reviews, contract monitoring, and ongoing relationship management activities. Developing tender documentation, evaluation materials, contract award reports, and other procurement documentation. Analysing spend and contract data to identify opportunities for efficiencies, savings, and service improvements. Supporting the management of procurement projects and contract renewal programmes to ensure deadlines are met. Building effective working relationships with colleagues, suppliers, NHS organisations, and collaborative procurement partners. Contributing to the delivery of the Trust's financial, sustainability, and governance objectives through compliant procurement practices. Supporting the continuous improvement of procurement processes, systems, and ways of working across the Trust.
About us
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking Procurement Team that directly supports frontline patient care. No two days are the same, and you will work on a diverse range of projects while helping to shape the future of procurement across one of the largest ambulance services in England.
Working for SWAST is an experience like no other. We provide emergency and urgent care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, operating across the largest ambulance region in England.
Our Procurement Team plays a vital role in ensuring our clinicians and operational colleagues have the products, services and equipment they need to deliver outstanding patient care.
Based in Exeter, the role offers hybrid working and the opportunity to join a supportive, ambitious team committed to innovation, collaboration and excellence.
Job description Job responsibilities
For further information about this role please see the attached job description and person specification.
Right to work / Certificate of sponsorship
This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current Home Office regulations. You must have the existing right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
For further information on visa sponsorship and eligibility, please refer to the UK Government guidance on Skilled Worker visas: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Person Specification
Education and qualifications Essential
Educated to Diploma/Degree Level or equivalent experience 5 x GCSEs including English and Mathematics (Grades 9-4 or A-C) or equivalent qualifications
Desirable
Training towards being fully qualified Member of Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) or appropriate professional institute or relevant experience
Previous experience Essential
Commercial/NHS experience and knowledge in purchasing and supply Purchasing procedures Experience of Tendering
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details Employer name South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Address Trust Headquarters
Abbey Court, Eagle Way
Exeter
EX2 7HY
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.swast.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)