Band 8a NHS Digital Procurement Specialist

About the Role We are seeking an experienced Procurement Specialist with strong Digital Health / EPR expertise to lead on the sourcing and contract management of digital systems, equipment, and managed services within an NHS Trust environment. This is a senior interim role responsible for managing a multi-million-pound digital health portfolio, driving best value, compliance, and innovation in the procurement of clinical and non-clinical digital technology. You will lead procurement and contracting activity, advise on commercial strategy, and support digital transformation initiatives across the Trust and its wider Integrated Care System (ICS) partners. Key Responsibilities Lead the procurement and contracting of clinical and non-clinical digital health systems, equipment, and managed services through competitive tendering.Take ownership of the Digital Health category strategy, aligning with organisational priorities and digital transformation plans.Support digital and EPR project managers across the Trust and ICS, leading workstreams where appropriate.Develop annual and long-term tendering and renewal plans, identifying potential savings opportunities.Undertake category management activities, analysing spend data to identify procurement opportunities and drive standardisation.Lead contract negotiations, resolving complex and contentious issues to achieve best commercial outcomes.Act as the client lead for high-value digital sourcing programmes, advising on procurement strategy, contractual risk, and compliance.Manage supplier performance through effective SLAs and KPIs, ensuring continuous improvement and service excellence.Use Atamis or equivalent procurement systems to manage tenders, publish notices, and maintain contract records.Engage proactively with clinical and digital stakeholders to identify opportunities for innovation and improved patient care.Provide high-level contractual and commercial advice on complex digital health products and partnerships.Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the procurement function. Essential Skills & Experience MCIPS qualified (or equivalent).Proven experience in public sector / NHS procurement, ideally within digital health or EPR programmes.Strong understanding of public procurement regulations and frameworks.Demonstrable experience leading high-value, complex sourcing and contract management initiatives.Skilled in stakeholder engagement, influencing at senior clinical, digital, and executive levels.Proficiency with Atamis or similar eProcurement platforms.Ability to analyse complex data, identify opportunities, and deliver measurable savings.Experience managing category strategies, tenders, and supplier performance across large portfolios.Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills Desirable Experience working across NHS Trusts or Integrated Care Systems (ICS/STP).Background in supporting digital transformation or IT infrastructure procurement.Understanding of healthcare technology markets and emerging innovations *Rates depend on experience and client requirements