Procurement Network Advisor

At CIPFA, we're driven by a singular purpose: to transform lives through exceptional public financial management. As a leading international accountancy body, we champion integrity, transparency, and efficiency in the use of public funds. We believe that every pound spent should deliver tangible improvements to public services, creating a better future for individuals and communities worldwide. Join us in shaping a world where public money truly makes a difference. 

CIPFA is recruiting for its Public Financial Management department and looking for individuals to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for motivated professionals who are passionate about supporting best practice in local government.

The postholder will take responsibility for CIPFA’s Procurement and Commissioning Network. As an expert in public sector procurement law and practice they will ensure efficient and effective communication with subscribers, research and answer complex and detailed technical queries, and deliver tailored training events. They will also work alongside the wider Networks to deliver on shared goals.

This role offers the chance to make a significant impact within the Public Financial Management department and contribute to the overall goals of CIPFA.

• Keep up to date with rules and regulations as they impact on public sector procurement and commercial contracts

• Research, write, and deliver a series of technical events throughout the year, primarily online, but including face-to-face presentation where appropriate

• Support the commercial operation of the Network by creating service plans, event promotion, and other elements to help drive subscriber retention and growth

• Tailor workshops to specific audiences as required

• Respond to detailed and complex technical queries from subscribers and provide authoritative and timely advice

• Manage the operations of the Procurement and Commissioning Network by completing annual service plans, monthly management accounts, and other administrative tasks

• Communicate with subscribers, including authoring a monthly newsletter

• Provide support to the wider Public Financial Management team and working collaboratively with other networks and advisors

We are seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• Knowledge and experience, at a senior level, of public sector procurement

• Practical experience of delivering training courses, facilitating workshops, and other public speaking

• Detailed knowledge and understanding of the Subsidy Control Act 2022, The Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, Procurement Act 2023, Public Contracts Regulations 2015, Data Protection Act 2018 (UK GDPR), Freedom of Information Act 2000, Employment Rights Act 2025 and other relevant legislation, particularly in the areas of contracting, commissioning, and data protection

• Ability to research new developments in the space and deliver written and live updates on key changes to a technical audience

• A good knowledge of how procurement practices support wider financial management and governance in the public sector

• The ability to communicate technical concepts to a non-technical audiences including elected members and budget holders

• Appropriate professional qualification (FCIPS/MSc or equivalent)

• Degree relevant to the field or equivalent experience working in the area

It is essential that candidates have a proactive attitude, excellent communication skills, and a strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Please note we may close the vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications are received, so early application is advised.

In exchange for helping us to make a difference we offer:

• Reward – Giving you fair pay and generous benefits, which includes completive salary, generous pension scheme, holiday scheme, family friendly benefits and more!
  

• Wellbeing – Empowering you to work flexibly, balancing your personal and professional live through our permanent 4-day working week (work 4 days, get paid for 5) and hybrid working, alongside with a range of health benefits, such as access to an Employee Assistance Helpline and the opportunity to join our Health Cash Plan.
  

• Purpose – Connecting the work you do with its social value and impact through paid volunteering days and charity and community work.
  

• Growth – Enabling you to develop your skills and knowledge through access to training opportunities, paid professional membership subscriptions, and career break options.
  

• Culture – Our culture is one of respect. We give you a sense of belonging, supporting you to work with autonomy, openness, and collaboration.
  

We know that not all people come from the same background, or think the same – so why should we? At CIPFA, we want to be a great place to work where a diverse group of people from all backgrounds can turn up and thrive. When we hire, we want you to feel empowered to bring your best self to work.

Please let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.