Procurement and Contract Officer

Location: Kensington Town Hall, W8 7NX

Department: Housing Needs – Temporary Accommodation and Resettlement

Contract: 3 months Contract

Grade: E

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About the Role

We are looking for a Procurement and Contract Officer to support the delivery of high-quality accommodation services for households in housing need.

This role plays a key part in commissioning, procuring, and managing accommodation, including temporary accommodation, direct lets, and private rented sector properties. You will work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure a consistent supply of suitable accommodation, while maintaining strong contract management and compliance standards.

You will also contribute to projects such as property decant programmes, tenancy audits, and new contract development, helping to drive continuous improvement across the service.

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Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Contract Management

• Support the commissioning, procurement, and management of accommodation services

• Lead on tendering processes, contract evaluation, and supplier management

• Monitor contract performance, ensuring value for money and compliance

• Address underperformance, service issues, and contractual risks

Accommodation Supply & Management

• Work with landlords, agents, and property owners to secure accommodation

• Conduct property inspections to assess suitability and standards

• Support management of the Council’s private leasing portfolio

• Assist with tenancy management, move-on processes, and reducing high-cost placements

Strategy & Performance

• Contribute to development of policies and strategies for accommodation supply

• Analyse demand, supply, and performance data to inform decision-making

• Support financial monitoring and budget control (portfolio approx. £40m)

• Assist in forecasting and planning accommodation needs

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, agents, providers, and partners

• Liaise with internal teams, residents, and external stakeholders

• Respond to enquiries, complaints, and escalations, including MPs and Ombudsman cases

• Represent the Council at forums, events, and meetings

Projects & Continuous Improvement

• Support delivery of accommodation-related projects and programmes

• Contribute to development of new contracts and services

• Promote innovative and efficient ways of working

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About You

Essential

• Experience working in housing, property, or a related sector

• Understanding of the private rented sector and housing regulations

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

• Ability to manage a varied workload and meet deadlines

• Analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and identify solutions

• Customer-focused approach with a commitment to service excellence

Desirable

• Experience in procurement and contract management

• Experience working with landlords or letting agents

• Knowledge of housing benefit regulations and compliance requirements

• Qualification or experience in property inspection (HHSRS)

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Our Values

We are looking for someone who demonstrates:

• Putting Communities First – delivering services that meet local needs

• Respect – valuing diversity and treating everyone fairly

• Integrity – being open, honest, and accountable

• Working Together – collaborating to deliver the best outcomes

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Additional Information

• Supporting a portfolio of approximately 2,300 accommodation units

• Contributing to management of a £40m temporary accommodation budget

• Flexible working arrangements available

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Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a team committed to improving housing outcomes and supporting vulnerable residents, while gaining exposure to procurement, contract management, and strategic housing projects within a leading London borough.