Job Introduction
About us
Do you aspire to work in a welcoming, innovative, forward-thinking, inclusive and supportive organisation where you can also learn and develop? YPO might be the perfect fit for you!
With 50 years of experience, YPO has been dedicated to supporting the public sector. Our journey began five decades ago when 13 local authorities united to streamline their purchasing needs and enhance efficiency, forming the organisation we know today.
As a 100% publicly owned entity by our 13 member authorities, we ensure that our profits are reinvested into our public sector customers, offering even greater value for money. Discover more about our company and culture at Start a career at YPO | YPO.
YPO is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best.
If this position is advertised as a full-time role (37 hours per week), YPO is pleased to consider requests for flexible working arrangements, including part-time hours and job-sharing opportunities. We are committed to supporting work-life balance and encourage candidates to discuss their preferred working patterns with us.
About the Role
We are excited to announce an opening of two Assistant Contracts Officer positions at YPO.
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Assistant Contracts Officer x1- Permanent
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Assistant Contracts Officer x1- Fixed Term (up to 12 months)
As a key member of the Contracts Team, reporting to the Contracts and Compliance Manager, the Assistant Contracts Officer will play an integral role in supporting YPO's compliance, contracting and public procurement activities. The postholder will help provide assurance that procurement and contracting activity is conducted consistently, accurately and in accordance with relevant legislation, internal governance requirements and best practice.
Working collaboratively with procurement colleagues and stakeholders across the organisation, the successful candidate will provide practical advice and support on procurement and contracting matters. Responsibilities will include the review, drafting and management of procurement and contract documentation, supporting procurement and contract management activities, identifying and mitigating risks, and contributing to YPO's compliance and assurance functions.
This is an excellent development opportunity for an individual looking to strengthen their experience within public procurement, contract management and compliance in a supportive and professional environment.
About You
As YPO continues to grow, this could be a great opportunity for you to join our team.
Drawing from the skills and experience section of the Job Description, we seek someone who has:
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Knowledge of, or a willingness to develop knowledge of, public procurement legislation, governance requirements and best practice.
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Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
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Excellent attention to detail and a methodical approach to reviewing documentation and processes.
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
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The ability to analyse information, support problem solving and identify practical solutions.
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Experience of building and maintaining effective working relationships and collaborating across teams.
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Good IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
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A commitment to continuous improvement, high standards of compliance and delivering excellent customer service.
For a detailed description of the role and required skills, please refer to the job description attached below.
What’s in it for you?
We are proud to offer a fantastic range of benefits, including:
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Generous annual leave, from 24 days a year, plus 8 days statutory bank holidays and 3 discretionary closedown days at Christmas
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Local Government Pension through West Yorkshire Pension Fund
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Recognition of continuous service from current employment with a relevant public sector body may apply (please email [email protected] for further information)
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A comprehensive health and wellbeing package
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Flexi scheme and flexible working options available (please discuss your preferred working requirements with the manager at interview)
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Family friendly policies
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Cycle to Work scheme
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Subsidised canteen
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Free parking available
To have a confidential and informal discussion about this role, or any additional support, please contact Anneliese Fothergill at [email protected]
Interviews are planned to take place week commencing 21 September 2026 in-person at our office in Wakefield.
