Interim Senior Procurement Officer (Highways)

Interim Senior Procurement Officer - Highways and Transport Location: Hybrid (minimum 2 days in office per week) Contract: Interim - 3 months Day Rate: Competitive (Inside IR35) Start Date: Immediate Role Purpose We are seeking an experienced Interim Procurement Officer to lead urgent and complex procurements. This role will support the delivery of high-value contracts for public and school transport as well as operational highway contracts. The primary purpose of the recruitment is a skilled procurement officer with an understanding of local government procurement with a Place context. This supports the strategic procurements including: school transport contracts, public transport contracts, highway framework contracts for subcontractor resource and a highway service contract for operational delivery. Key Responsibilities Manage end-to-end procurement processes for transport and highway contracts. Ensure all procurement activity complies with UK public procurement regulations, the Procurement Act 2023, and local authority standing orders. Prepare tender documentation, support supplier engagement, and oversee evaluation and award processes. Advise internal stakeholders on procurement strategy, risk management, and contract compliance. Support the development and delivery of frameworks and dynamic purchasing systems. Maintain accurate records for audit and governance purposes. Provide expert guidance to internal teams Essential Skills & Experience Proven experience in public sector procurement, ideally within a local authority setting. Strong knowledge of UK procurement legislation and contract forms (NEC). Ability to manage multiple high-priority projects under tight deadlines. Excellent stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills. Immediate availability and ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities. Desirable MCIPS or equivalent procurement qualification. Familiarity with e-tendering platforms and contract management systems. Working Conditions Hybrid working model (minimum 2 days in office per week). Connect2Dorset is a trading style of Dorset & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Dorset Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates