At Places for People, we hire People, not numbers! So, if you like the sound of one of our jobs, please apply - you could be just who we’re looking for! Of course, experience and track record are important, but we’re more interested in hiring someone that embodies our People Promises. That’s someone that does the right thing, is enthusiastic and motivated to grow, believes in Community spirit, is respectful and enjoys their work. As the UK’s leading Social Enterprise we’re dedicated to creating inclusive and thriving Communities for both our Customers and Employees.  

More about the team
The Procurement Team are a key function within the day to operations of Places for People. This is an exciting time to be joining as we embark on our next phase of growth. 
More about your role
Reporting to the Category Manager for IT Spend, we are looking to hire a Senior Buyer on a permanent basis. Based in Preston one day a week, you will be responsible for delivering a range of IT based projects focussed around the needs of the Group. 

On a daily basis, you will manage the tendering and negotiation process for allocated areas of responsibility ensuring best value, compliance, commercial and contractual risk are observed. You will work closely with the rest of the team in order to develop procurement documents in conjunction with the internal stakeholders, customer and legal advisors. 
In addition to providing support to the wider procurement function, you will lead on the management of complex procurement projects. 
More about you
The ideal candidate will have
* Experience within a Procurement role,
* A proven track record of dealing with suppliers/ vendors,
* IT experience is desired not essential,
* CIPS qualification (ideal not essential), 
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
At Places for People, we prioritise our dedication to safer recruitment. Therefore, a basic DBS check is mandatory for this position.  
The benefits 
We are a large diverse and ambitious business, which will give you all the challenge you could wish for.
We know that there’s always more we can do to make you smile, that’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package with each role, yours will include:
* Competitive salary, with a salary review yearly
* Pension with matched contributions up to 7%
* Excellent holiday package – up to 35 days annual leave with the option to buy or sell leave
* Cashback plan for healthcare costs – up to £500 saving per year
* A bonus scheme for all colleagues at 2%
* Training and development
* Extra perks including huge discounts and offers from shops, cinemas and much more
What’s next?
If you meet the criteria and are ready to make the next step in your career then click apply. You will be redirected to our careers site where you can discover more about the role, read a full job description and apply directly to us.
If you are a Places for People customer and you’re looking for support with your application, please contact our skills and employment team on .
If you are a recruitment agency please note we operate a PSL and do not take cold calls