Procurement Manager

As one of the largest educational trusts in the UK, we are committed to delivering excellence in education and value for money across our network of schools. As Procurement Manager you will play a pivotal role in delivering an efficient and cost-effective procurement service across the Trust.

ABOUT THE ROLE 

As a key member of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) Procurement team, you will help us deliver a “best in class” procurement service across a wide range of categories including Utilities, Sustainability projects, Cleaning, Catering, Direct Procurement, HR, IT, Hard Services, and specialist educational software and services. This role provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to, and expand on, the success of our organisation by driving cost savings, optimising procurement processes, and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement end-to-end procurement strategies, delivering best value for money and achieving economies of scale.
• Proactively manage existing school catering and cleaning contracts, including benchmarking and annual budgeting.
• Optimise direct spend related to various categories such as food, janitorial consumables, stationery, and educational resources.
• Support ongoing management, including billing, of existing utilities contracts.
• Help manage the centralisation of schools' water and waste contracts, ensuring a smooth transition and contract onboarding.
• Negotiate and renew arrangements for Trust-wide insurance cover.
• Help expand procurement services to additional spend categories such as Marketing and Construction projects.
• Handle procurement administrative tasks as required.
• Continuously identify opportunities for cost savings and implement process improvements.

Requirements:

• Solid procurement experience across multiple categories, including utilities, hard and soft services, and direct procurement.
• Proven experience in delivering efficient procurement services.
• Strong understanding of how Operations functions work within businesses.
• Excellent knowledge of procurement policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Experience in contract and supplier management.
• Ability to analyse data, conduct market research, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Proven track record in delivering procurement initiatives and achieving results.

WHO WE ARE

The GDST is the leading network of independent girls’ schools in the UK, educating approximately 8% of all girls at UK independent schools. We are a not-for-profit organisation; all surpluses achieved from educating the 20,000 pupils in the 23 GDST schools and two academies throughout England and Wales are re-invested into girls’ education.

Since its foundation in 1872, to a £260 million organisation today, the GDST has never wavered in its belief in the uniqueness of its individual pupils, nor in our commitment to equipping them to succeed. For more information on the GDST and its schools, please visit www.gdst.net.

WHY JOIN US 

At GDST, we are committed to supporting the well-being, growth, and development of our employees, providing a comprehensive range of benefits to enhance your professional and personal life, including:

• Competitive Salaries and Career Progression: We offer competitive salaries and opportunities for career growth, recognising and rewarding your contributions.
• Generous Pension Scheme: Enjoy the peace of mind of a pension scheme with up to a 12% employer contribution, helping you plan for a secure financial future.
• Generous Holiday Allowance: Take advantage of 30 days of annual leave, in addition to extra time off during the festive season, allowing you to relax and recharge.
• Professional Development Opportunities: Access extensive professional development programs, including training and workshops, to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Training Grants: We provide financial support through training grants to help you pursue relevant qualifications and certifications, empowering your professional growth.
• Fee Discounts for Children: Benefit from a significant discount of up to 50% on school fees for your children attending GDST schools, ensuring access to exceptional education for your family.
• Life Assurance: Receive free life assurance coverage, providing financial security and peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
• Interest-Free Loans: Access interest-free loans for various purposes, such as training, purchasing a computer, or obtaining a travel season ticket, easing financial burdens.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Participate in the Cycle to Work scheme, enabling you to purchase a bike and related equipment tax-efficiently, promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing commuting costs.
• Trust Office Social Events: Join in regular social events organised by the Trust Office, fostering a supportive and inclusive community and promoting team spirit and well-being.

To apply:

Applications are via CV. Please email your CV and covering letter for the attention of Benedicte Gercke, Head of Procurement to b.gercke@wes.gdst.net.

The closing date is 10am on Tuesday 13th June 2023.

Each of our schools and our Trust Office has its own sense of community, and you’ll be part of it. You’ll be part, too, of the wider GDST family. You’ll be in the company of some of the best and brightest people in independent education. Most importantly, no matter what your role, you’ll be playing a major part in the highly regarded education we give our girls.

The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion, and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.  

The GDST are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.