Band 4 - Buyer - Procurement

We are looking for three new self-motivated and enthusiastic buyers to join our dynamic Transactional Procurement team at the BSOL Procurement Collaborative (BSOL PC), hosted by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB). The team provides procurement and supply chain services to UHB, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, and the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. This role supports the delivery of high-quality patient care while ensuring value for money.

About the role

The role is based at the BSOL PC offices, Regent Court, Birmingham. You will support the team by responding to purchase requisitions, obtaining quotations, creating purchase orders, and handling routine customer enquiries about product details, availability, and returns. You will analyse and make judgements on purchasing options for routine low-value orders to ensure cost-effective procurement. The role involves using computerised systems such as Oracle, Sage, and Integra Finance Systems.

Responsibilities

• Ensure Trust and Departmental policies and procedures are followed at all times.
• Provide effective procurement, ensuring a high level of service and value for money.
• Undertake low-level risk purchasing activity associated with the Trust's Financial/Purchasing ERP system.
• Seek "best buy" opportunities where no appropriate Public Sector contract exists, challenging suppliers for improved discounts.
• Offer guidance and respond to customer enquiries regarding value-for-money decisions, product details, costs, and availability.
• Advise on the use of appropriate contract arrangements.
• Ensure appropriate VAT treatment on purchase orders and correct financial coding for VAT status.
• Challenge and ensure compliance of all emergency orders with Trust Standing Financial Instructions (SFIs) and Procurement Policy.
• Respond to product recall requests and liaise with appropriate end-user departments.
• Undertake competitive quotation activity using the e-Procurement system for goods and services not covered by existing contracts, in line with Trust SFIs and Procurement Policy.

Requirements

• Good standard of general education.
• NVQ Level 3/ONC Business Studies or relevant equivalent experience.
• Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) Foundation level.
• Experience in procurement, buying, or inventory control.
• Commercial awareness and knowledge of business principles.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Software.
• Knowledge of contract law and professional purchasing principles (acquired through NVQ Level 3 or equivalent experience).
• Reliable, punctual, and motivated team player.
• Flexibility to work at different locations and adaptable approach to working times.
• Commitment to Continual Professional Development (CPD).

Desirable Skills

• Experience in using e-commerce platforms.

About Us

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust strives to foster an inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong, can thrive, and knows they add value. We aim to attract and recruit talented individuals from all backgrounds and support them to achieve their full potential. For staff with disabilities, including physical disabilities, long-term health conditions, mental health, or neurodiverse conditions, we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable you to carry out your role.

This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for any previous criminal convictions.

Pay

Agenda for Change Band 4, with a salary range of £28,392 to £31,157 per year.

Schedule

Full-time, permanent contract with flexible working options available.