Location
London (Hybrid working available)

Hours
Full-time

Salary
£63,843

About the Role
Join the Royal College of Art (RCA), the world’s leading university of art and design, as Head of Procurement. This strategic and experienced role will lead our procurement function at a pivotal time of growth and development. You will shape procurement across the College, ensuring best value, legal compliance, and alignment with our values and strategic goals. As Head of Procurement, you will lead the development and delivery of the College’s procurement strategy, policy, and operations. You will ensure the procurement of goods, services, and works is carried out in accordance with the College’s sustainability ambitions, financial targets, and core values. A key part of the role involves building strong supplier relationships, managing contracts effectively, and delivering continuous improvement in procurement practice. You will play a central role in achieving value for money across all College expenditure, managing major procurement projects and working closely with colleagues across the RCA, particularly budget holders, contract managers, senior leadership, and Heads of Department. You will also represent the College externally in dealings with suppliers, framework providers, purchasing consortia, and professional bodies such as the Higher Education Procurement Association.

Experience
We are looking for a professionally qualified procurement expert (MCIPS or equivalent), with extensive experience leading strategic procurement in complex organisations. You’ll have a strong understanding of procurement legislation, contract and supplier management, proven success in delivering financial savings and managing commercial risk, and experience with a range of procurement categories, including facilities, construction, and IT.

About you
You will possess excellent negotiation skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels. This is a fantastic opportunity for a procurement leader who wants to make a lasting impact in a creative, forward-thinking, and mission-driven environment.

Qualifications
MCIPS or equivalent qualification is required.