Job Title: Head of Procurement
Department: Finance
Location: London (Hybrid working available)
Salary: Grade 10
Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
Reporting to: Deputy Director of Finance (Finance Operations, Accounting and Control)
Join the Royal College of Art as Head of Procurement
The Royal College of Art (RCA), the world’s leading university of art and design, is seeking a strategic and experienced Head of Procurement to lead our procurement function at a pivotal time of growth and development. This is a high-impact leadership role that offers the opportunity to shape procurement across the College, ensuring best value, legal compliance, and alignment with our values and strategic goals.
About the Role
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.
About You
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
Experience with a range of procurement categories, including facilities, construction, and IT
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.
For more information on the role please see the Info Pack.
