Commercial Compliance & Assurance Project Lead – Contract Until 31 March 2027 (Outside IR35)

Shropshire Council | Remote with Occasional Travel to Shrewsbury

Location: Remote with occasional travel to Shrewsbury
Rate: £500 per day (Outside IR35)
Contract Duration: Until 31 March 2027
Hours: Full Time
Engagement Type: Outside IR35
Pay: Daily Rate

Summary

Shropshire Council is embarking on a significant transformation of its Procurement and Contract Management functions and is in search of a seasoned Commercial Compliance & Assurance Project Lead. This role is pivotal in crafting, executing, and embedding a comprehensive commercial governance framework across the organization. The position is strategic, focusing on ensuring procurement compliance, governance, transparency, and assurance throughout all service areas, aligning commercial activities with legal standards and Council priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive Commercial Compliance and Assurance Framework for the Council.
  
• Establish a strong governance and oversight approach for commercial decision-making.
  
• Ensure adherence to:
  • Procurement Act 2023
    
  • Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR 2015)
    
  • Procurement Regulations 2024
    
  • Procurement Policy Notes (PPNs)
    
  • Internal Contract Procedure Rules
    
  • Delegations and Governance Requirements
    
• Integrate compliance processes and controls throughout the Council.
  
• Lead a pilot implementation within a specific service area, refining processes based on feedback.
  
• Create and deliver training on procurement and contract management compliance.
  
• Formulate final recommendations and improvement strategies.
  
• Facilitate the transition of the framework to a permanent Council employee.
  

Requirements

Requirements:

• Extensive experience in public sector procurement, governance, compliance, or commercial assurance.
  
• In-depth understanding of:
  • Procurement Act 2023
    
  • Public Contracts Regulations 2015
    
  • Public Sector Procurement Best Practices
    
  • Contract Management Governance
    
• Proven experience in designing and embedding governance or assurance frameworks.
  
• Strong skills in stakeholder management and influence.
  
• Experience in developing policies, controls, and process enhancements.
  
• Exceptional analytical, reporting, and communication abilities.
  
• Experience in delivering training, coaching, and mentoring.
  
• Capability to manage complex strategic projects and achieve measurable results.
  

Desirable Qualifications

• MCIPS qualification or equivalent.
  
• Experience in local government.
  
• Background in procurement transformation.
  
• Experience with implementing Procurement Act reforms.
  
• Experience in complex public sector environments.
  

What's on Offer?

• £500 per day (Outside IR35)
  
• Contract until 31 March 2027
  
• Remote work with occasional travel to Shrewsbury
  
• Opportunity to lead a prominent commercial governance initiative
  
• Significant impact on the future of procurement and contract management within the Council
  
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
  
• Long-term contract with potential for lasting impact across the organization
  

Ideal for individuals with experience as a Commercial Governance Lead, Commercial Assurance Manager, Procurement Transformation Lead, Senior Procurement Consultant, Strategic Procurement Manager, Procurement Governance Lead, Head of Commercial Compliance, or Procurement Programme Manager.