Interim Head of Procurement – Leading London University
Location: London Contract Type: Interim (6 months) Start Date: ASAP Salary: Competitive day rate (inside IR35)

About the Role

A prestigious London university is seeking an experienced and strategic procurement leader to join as Interim Head of Procurement. This is a high-impact role at the heart of a dynamic academic institution, offering the opportunity to shape procurement strategy, drive value, and lead a talented team through a period of transformation.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the university’s procurement function, overseeing strategic sourcing across a diverse range of spend categories.
Ensure compliance with public sector procurement regulations and internal governance
Develop and implement sustainable procurement strategies aligned with institutional goals
Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders across faculties and professional services
Manage and mentor a high-performing procurement team

About You

We’re looking for a seasoned procurement professional with:
Proven leadership experience in complex, regulated environments (public sector or higher education preferred)
Strong knowledge of UK procurement legislation and frameworks (e.g. PA23 & PCR 2015)
Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
A strategic mindset with the ability to deliver operational excellence
Experience managing change and driving continuous improvement

Why Join?

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to a values-driven institution committed to excellence, sustainability, and innovation. You’ll play a key role in shaping procurement strategy during a critical period, with the autonomy to make a lasting impact.

How to Apply

If you're ready to take on a leadership challenge at one of London’s top universities, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a brief cover note to kieron.mcneill@hays.com or apply via this advert.