Good communication skills and a positive attitude are central to Emma Kitson’s role as a Procurement Manager
Give a brief outline of your career to date
When I left higher education I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do, prior to starting in PaLS I worked in a bank as a Customer Service Advisor and as a cosmetic brand Counter Manager. Although I did enjoy my job in sales in time I realised I wanted to push myself to try something different which led me to apply for a temporary role in PaLS just under 5 years ago and the rest is history! In my current role I am a Procurement Manager working within the Capital Equipping Team, the portfolio of contracts I currently manage support the Capital Procurement of equipment across Northern Ireland Health & Social Care. We also manage the procurement of all equipment required for new capital projects and major redevelopments, for example we recently managed the procurement for the Nightingale Wards in Whiteabbey during the pandemic which was extremely rewarding.
What was your favourite subject at school?
History and English Literature
Did you go on to further/ higher education, if so what did you study and where?
I studied Advertising and Media at Northumbria University in Newcastle upon Tyne. I have also just completed 3 years study alongside my full time role to obtain membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS).
Is this what you always wanted to do?
Procurement was never really on my radar as a professional career path as it was not promoted when I was at school or university. However Procurement has most definitely been put on the map more than ever due to the professions integral role in managing the continuity of supply of goods and services in preparation for Brexit and in reaction to the Covid 19 pandemic.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed?
There are various entry levels depending on qualifications and experience. BSO actively promotes study for membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) within the organisation but good quality experience is also recognised and valued.
Are there alternative routes into the job?
Yes, there are a number of routes to enter; we currently recruit annually for both Internships and the BSO Graduate Scheme. PaLS are also currently looking into offering an Apprenticeship programme.
What are the main personal skills your job requires?
The job requires a varied skills set, with both soft and hard skills being essential. Communication, team working and organisational skills are at the heart of the role along with the ability to prioritise work through regular reviewing of competing demands. I would also say the job requires a can do attitude and a positive outlook, there is always something more to learn or a different way to look at things and so an eagerness to learn and improve paired with a positive attitude is key.
What does a typical day entail?
No two days are ever the same in PaLS which I like. An average day would begin with checking emails and prioritising my team and I’s workload. I often have scheduled meetings to attend in regard to my portfolio of regional Contracts, in between these I would be communicating with Clients and colleagues in regard to current Tender renewals or Contract Management.
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
The best aspect of the job is definitely having so much of an opportunity to work alongside a range of different people from a number of different disciplines within PaLS and the Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland. The most challenging aspect of the job would be managing competing demands in a busy and ever-changing and developing working environment, especially during periods where we have vacancies and are recruiting positions within the team.
Why is what you do important?
My role is important because ultimately I am contributing to patients being cared for and getting the product and/or service in which they need and also that Health Service workers who are providing care have everything they need to carry out their integral role. PaLS role is behind the scenes but critical nonetheless for patient outcomes.
What advice would you give anyone looking to follow a similar career path?
Have a positive attitude and approach towards both your work and others, your team is one of your most important attributes so communication and an appreciation of your colleagues is key. I would also advise anyone looking to follow a similar career path to put themselves forwards for opportunities within PaLS such as studying to gain a CIPS accreditation or as a representative on any new and innovative projects that may come your way. They say life begins at the end of your comfort zone so always aim to challenge yourself in some way or another.
If you weren’t doing this what would you like to do?
I think I would stay in health, maybe be a nurse.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to yourself on your first day?
Don’t be scared to ask questions, there is always someone there to help. When I began my career in Procurement I put a lot of pressure on myself to figure things out on my own and to know all the answers but there is always someone to go to for assistance.
Describe your ideal day off.
My ideal day off would be spent with my family, taking the dog for a walk and a coffee then home to get the fire on and a takeaway for dinner.
And finally, what’s the key to any successful job search?
Do your research, not only on the role you are applying for but on the organisation you would be working for. Finding a role and organisation you are motivated by is so important and will contribute to your success.
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