Education Partnership North East
Procurement Assistant
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Procurement Assistant
Location: Sunderland
Salary: £26,446 to £29,594 per annum
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Thursday 08 October 2026
Reference: 0787-26
At EPNE our ‘purpose’ is our north star. It is what we expect of ourselves every single day and why we ask all staff to keep our purpose front and centre in all that they do.
Our Purpose is to “unlock potential, create opportunities, and transform lives through outstanding education, skills and training”. Rooted in our transformative power, it communicates our work in tackling inequalities, removing barriers, and improving the life chances of the people and communities we serve.
We nurture our very special culture. Our unifying values framework “The actions we take the choices we make - The actions I take the choices I make” represent the character of our college group, and are grounded in the belief that every action, by every individual, contributes to our success. This why we encourage empowered individuals, personal accountability and growth.
Building on our remarkable past, creativity and pioneering spirit, we are moving forward with courage into the future, improving what we do, remaining action-orientated, and innovating to make an exceptional difference for the world we live in. Shaping futures for a better tomorrow, join our changemaking community now.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas - Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritize cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About The Role
The Procurement Assistant will gain practical experience of working within a busy operational procurement team whilst learning and developing public-sector procurement skills. The role requires excellent organisational, communication and administration skills.
The experience and knowledge gained will provide a strong foundation level to progress in a procurement related career.
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Working as part of the procurement team, under the supervision of colleagues and reporting to the Director of Procurement, the Procurement Assistant will develop their knowledge base and apply Public Sector Contracting in line with Public Sector Regulations. The candidate will be required to obtain and retain Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS membership).
Role Responsibilities
- Administrative processes within the department to include, due diligence on supplier applications, maintaining the Contract Register, working to Standard Operating Procedures
- Supporting Procurement Staff in facilitating Tender Processes and Contract Management
- Lead on quotation processes to deliver successful contractual outcomes that deliver VfM for all EPNE stakeholders
- Navigate, maintain and populate e-Tendering Portal, e-Procurement Platforms, Contract Management System, Helpdesk, E-Card’s and P2P Software to expedite both operational and transactional duties
- Procure goods and services in alignment to Financial Regulations through a variety of purchasing routes
- Facilitate where appropriate trials and evaluations of services, equipment and achieve best VfM in line with policy and processes.
- Identify / compare products requested and propose suitable alternatives looking to maximise savings whenever possible
- Resolving internal customer queries seeking guidance and advice whenever required
- Develop professional working relationships with the Finance Team and other internal and external stakeholders
- Interpreting purchasing data with relation to indirect procurement of goods and services
- Present clear information, both technical and financial to internal and external stakeholders
- Manage both Student and Staff Travel requirements. Ensuring safeguarding requirements have been met. Maintain Central Register for Disaster Recovery.
- Achieve individual agreed targets and assist in achieving savings targets and objectives as agreed in appraisal.
- Contribute to a culture of continual improvement
- Assist with ad hoc tasks as directed to support business operations
Qualifications
Studying or Working towards CIPS Diploma in Procurement and Supply is desirable.
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Essential Skills & Experience
- Working knowledge of operating within organisational policies
- IT skills literate in Microsoft packages, including Outlook, Word, Excel and Power point
- Ability to Plan and Prioritise own workload
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays - (Excluding Term Time Only contracts)
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme – depending on role.
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We know that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities.
We recognise that talented individuals may not always follow a traditional career path and may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about the role and believe you can make a positive contribution, we encourage you to apply.
As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing environment where everyone can thrive.
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
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