Procurement Business Partner

North East Ambition; North East; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional governance authority in the North East of England is seeking a Procurement Business Partner to lead strategic procurement initiatives. In this role, you will drive category management, embed social value into strategies, and build strong partnerships with suppliers. The ideal candidate will have a CIPS Level 4 qualification, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to value-driven procurement. This role offers professional development, hybrid working, and a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Professional development support

Exposure to high-profile projects

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• Recognized qualification in procurement or equivalent experience.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills are essential.
• Passion for delivering value-driven procurement.

Responsibilities

• Drive category management and oversee complex contracts.
• Embed social value and sustainability into procurement strategies.
• Advise senior leaders and influence decisions.
• Build strong partnerships with suppliers and stakeholders.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Contract management

Supplier relationship management

Strategic procurement

Education

CIPS Level 4 qualification or equivalent

Job description

Contract: Full-time, Fixed term for 6 months

Reporting to: Senior Procurement Business Partner

Join us as a Procurement Business Partner

Shape your future while shaping ours.

The North East Combined Authority is looking for a Procurement Business Partner to lead strategic procurement initiatives across all functions of the Authority that deliver real impact for our communities. This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to grow your expertise and influence at the heart of a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation.

About Us

The North East CA was formed in May 2024 to give local people more control over decisions that matter most. Covering seven local authority areas—County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland. We collaborate to drive inclusive growth, enhance transport, develop skills, and create opportunities across the region — all with the goal of making the North East an exceptional place to live, work, visit, and invest.

In this role, you will:

• Drive category management and oversee complex, high-value contracts
• Embed social value and sustainability into procurement strategies
• Advise senior leaders and influence decisions that shape regional outcomes
• Build strong partnerships with suppliers and stakeholders

What’s in it for you?

• A clear path for professional development, including support for CIPS progression and leadership skills
• Exposure to high-profile projects and innovative procurement practices
• A collaborative environment that values continuous improvement and knowledge sharing
• Hybrid working and flexible arrangements to support work-life balance

About you:

You will have a recognised qualification (CIPS Level 4 or equivalent), strong negotiation and contract management skills, and a passion for delivering value-driven procurement.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We support flexible working and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

To Apply

If you would like an informal discussion or further information about this role, please contact Roger Guy, Senior Procurement Business Partner; [e-mail]

For further information about the North East Combined Authority please visit our website www.northeast-ca.gov.uk.

This recruitment is being administered by Durham County Council on behalf of the North East Combined Authority.