Procurement Specialist

ISP Procurement Specialist

Purpose of Role

As a Procurement Specialist, you will support the purchasing activities of the region. You will be responsible for sourcing goods and services, assisting in vendor management, preparing and reviewing contracts, and ensuring procurement processes comply with company policies and regulations. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

The aim of the Procurement Specialist is not simply to deliver the lowest-cost option, but to help unlock value for the organization through cost efficiencies, rebates, and improved quality of products and services.

You will work closely with the Finance and Properties teams, supporting initiatives and tracking KPIs that contribute to delivering value to stakeholders across the Company.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and execution of cost-effective procurement sourcing strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Source and procure goods and services required for operations, ensuring compliance with internal processes.
• Support vendor identification, negotiation, and contract preparation, while maintaining positive supplier relationships.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, and supply chain developments to provide input for informed purchasing decisions.
• Collaborate with school teams and other departments to understand procurement needs and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
• Ensure compliance with ISP procurement policies, procedures, and regulations; assist in training school teams on procurement processes.
• Ensure that schools establish correct and compliant relationships with suppliers, verifying that all vendors meet the required legal obligations to work with us, including compliance with REPSE registration and specialized services requirements.
• Work closely with the Legal team to review contracts, validate supplier documentation, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Support supplier performance evaluations and maintain records of quality, delivery, and service.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency.
• Ensure purchases follow the ISP Delegation of Authority guidelines.
• Contribute to the adoption and effective use of sourcing software such as ScanMarket to support transparent and robust sourcing.
• Track and maintain contract databases to support timely renegotiations and alternative sourcing when necessary.
• Work with data sets to identify cost-saving opportunities and procurement patterns.
• Assist in preparing reports for Regional Directors on procurement performance and opportunities.
• Support the Projects Director and Facilities team in monitoring CAPEX budgets and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Previous experience in a procurement, purchasing, or finance role.
• Knowledge of sourcing and procurement techniques (e.g., supplier evaluation, contract negotiation).
• Understanding of legal requirements related to supplier management (e.g., REPSE, specialized services compliance).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-supported recommendations.
• Good negotiation and interpersonal skills to maintain effective vendor relationships.
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

ISP Principles

Begin with our children and students. Our children and students are at the heart of what we do. Simply, their success is our success. Wellbeing and safety are both essential for learners and learning. Therefore, we are consistent in identifying potential safeguarding and Health & Safety issues and acting and following up on all concerns appropriately.

Treat everyone with care and respect. We look after one another, embrace similarities and differences and promote the well-being of self and others.

Operate effectively. We focus relentlessly on the things that are most important and will make the most difference. We apply school policies and procedures and embody the shared ideas of our community.

Are financially responsible. We make financial choices carefully based on the needs of the children, students and our schools.

Learn continuously. Getting better is what drives us. We positively engage with personal and professional development and school improvement.

ISP Commitment to Safeguarding Principles

ISP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

All post holders are subject to appropriate vetting procedures, including an online due diligence search, references and satisfactory Criminal Background Checks or equivalent covering the previous 10 years' employment history. 

ISP Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

ISP is committed to strengthening our inclusive culture by identifying, hiring, developing, and retaining high-performing teammates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender expression, age, disability status, neurodivergence, socio-economic background or other demographic characteristics. Candidates who share our vision and principles and are interested in contributing to the success of ISP through this role are strongly encouraged to apply.