Devon and Cornwall Police have a new opportunity for a Senior Category Buyer to join the Southwest Police Procurement Service (SWPPS). SWPPS cover five Forces who serve the public in the counties of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Avon, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The team are almost thirty strong and look after over 500 contracts with a spend of circa £480m.
Procurement in Policing is varied, including both products and services, which support operational policing. As a Senior Category Buyer you will lead on the SWPPS approach to managing and delivering successful Regional procurement in identified key sub-categories, especially the complex / high value procurements. This will involve the full engagement of key stakeholders (including operational and technical experts in each of the forces), and building effective and productive relationships with specific Suppliers, in addition to leading a small, experienced procurement team.
Applicants should be able to demonstrate commercial acumen, and ideally possess Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS Level 4 or above), a Business related degree or similar. A background in the Insurance industry, I.T, or Commissioning would be beneficial but is not essential. Support is provided to those wishing to gain industry qualifications and annual membership fees are paid for by SWPPS.
This is a hybrid working role with flexibility to work from home and/or one of the five Police Headquarters in the South West region. There is an expectation to attend occasional onsite meetings within the region.
It is a full-time position however part-time hours are also considered.
This is a great opportunity not only to join one of Policing’s largest procurement teams and gain from all the benefits that brings, but ultimately contribute to operational policing and make a positive difference to the communities we serve.
