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OverviewThe National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. We are a dynamic and vibrant community solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes. Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your perspective to our organisation.

About the roleThe Procurement Business Partner is part of the Strategic Procurement team and provides professional procurement expertise to nominated functions within the organisation. This role supports day-to-day operations and NOC projects by designing, implementing, and managing procurement strategies that align with stakeholder goals. The post acts as a Business Partner, strategic advisor, and procurement SME, forging strong stakeholder relationships to deliver best practice procurement in a fast-paced, high-tech, and scientific environment. You will ensure high levels of service, governance and compliance with public procurement regulations (including the Procurement Act 2023), and promote best practices across the supply chain.

Two roles are available: one within Marine and Engineering and one within IT and Professional Services. Typical scopes include vessel operations, marine engineering and technical systems, shipboard and autonomous equipment, specialist consumables, and time-sensitive operational needs. You will plan and run compliant sourcing activities, negotiate robust, proportionate contracts, and manage supplier performance to support safe, reliable, and cost-effective delivery in a dynamic environment. IT and Professional Services will involve delivering procurement solutions across technology and professional services, ensuring compliance with public sector regulations and NOC policies.

ResponsibilitiesThe role includes, but is not limited to:

Partner with vessel operations, marine engineering, and MARS teams to design and execute procurement strategies

Plan and run compliant sourcing activities; negotiate terms and contracts

Manage supplier performance and ensure governance and compliance with procurement regulations

Develop category plans based on market analysis, costs, and supplier landscapes

Support day-to-day procurement activities and contribute to strategic procurement initiatives

For IT and Professional Services, deliver procurement solutions across technology and professional service categories, ensuring value for money while complying with regulations and policies.

About youWe are seeking a candidate with a robust background in procurement who can manage multiple projects, foster strong stakeholder relationships, and adapt to changing needs. You will have:

Experience as a subject matter expert and business partner within cross-functional teams

Ability to provide innovative solutions to complex problems

Strong skills in managing relationships within a matrix organization

Experience assessing needs, communicating with suppliers, and evaluating proposals/contracts

Knowledge of public sector procurement regulations (Procurement Act 2023)

Experience creating category plans based on market analysis; experience in scientific laboratory supplies, engineering, or marine industry is essential

Experience in supplier relationship management and whole-life contract management

Experience reviewing and negotiating supplier terms and preparing tender/framework documentation

Experience with a wide range of procurement solutions including negotiation

ERP experience (Unit4 advantageous); exposure to large public tenders and procurement analytics

Desirable MCIPS or equivalent certification; degree level education or equivalent is also desirable

Why NOC?We offer a generous benefits package, including:

30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme for mental, physical, emotional, health and financial support

Flexible benefits portal with online discounts, cashback and eGift cards

Cycle2Work scheme

Social events and a Living Wage Employer accreditation

LocationThis position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport with cycle parking and onsite parking available, including EV charging points. NOC has a hybrid working approach; most positions allow remote work up to 2 days per week. Flexible arrangements can be discussed with the recruitment team.

Submitting an applicationPlease click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your interest in either the Marine and Engineering or IT and Professional Services.

If you are unable to apply online, contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk or 07355 676794. Please review the attached job description and person specification before submitting your application.

Diversity and inclusionWe are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, and all employment decisions are made on qualifications, skills and experience without regard to protected characteristics. There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 16/09/2025

Closing date: 14/10/2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. We are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Supply Chain

Industries

Research Services

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