Advanced Procurement Category Lead - Defence

About the role

This interim position supports a leading UK public‑sector innovator in delivering defence‑related procurement projects. You will lead sourcing, purchasing and contract management for a wide range of goods, services and works, ensuring compliance with public‑sector regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute procurement strategies for defence and related categories.
• Source, negotiate and manage contracts, including over‑threshold regulated tenders and single‑source procurements.
• Provide guidance for business case development and support strategic projects such as new facilities and large‑scale programmes.
• Identify process‑improvement opportunities and promote best‑practice procurement across a multi‑site operation.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders, escalating issues as required.

Required profile

• Proven experience in defence procurement or a commercial role within the defence sector.
• In‑depth knowledge of public‑sector procurement regulations (PCR 2015, Procurement Act 2023).
• Professional procurement qualification (e.g., MCIPS) or equivalent.
• Strong commercial acumen, analytical ability and stakeholder‑management skills.
• SC security clearance is mandatory.

Required skills

• Understanding of NEC suite of contracts (advantageous).

What we offer

• 6‑12 month contract (IR35 compliant) with a competitive daily rate.
• Hybrid working model – two days per week in the Bristol office.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact defence projects within a leading public‑sector organisation.