At EPNE our ‘purpose’ is our north star. It is what we expect of ourselves every single day and why we ask all staff to keep our purpose front and centre in all that they do. 

Our Purpose is to “unlock potential, create opportunities, and transform lives through outstanding education, skills and training”.   Rooted in our transformative power, it communicates our work in tackling inequalities, removing barriers, and improving the life chances of the people and communities we serve. 

We nurture our very special culture. Our unifying values framework “The actions we take the choices we make - The actions I take the choices I make” represent the character of our college group, and are grounded in the belief that every action, by every individual, contributes to our success. This why we encourage empowered individuals, personal accountability and growth. 

Building on our remarkable past, creativity and pioneering spirit, we are moving forward with courage into the future, improving what we do, remaining action-orientated, and innovating to make an exceptional difference for the world we live in.  Shaping futures for a better tomorrow, join our changemaking community now.   

Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas - Ofsted-Report-Outstanding

Our Journey & Values

As an employer, we prioritise cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.

 

About the Candidate

The Contracts Officer role involves working with the team’s Programme Managers and other managers across the Group to ensure the requirements of externally funded contracts are fulfilled, contract delivery is compliant and income is maximised. Successful stakeholder relationship management both internally and externally are a critical part of the role. 

We are looking for experienced candidates with a strong demonstrable track record coordinating the delivery of the end to end supply chain management process, for subcontracted delivery from procurement, contracting, quality, finance, risk, audit, funding compliance and assurance. Preferably within the Further Education sector. 

Candidates should have the ability to work independently, use initiative, problem solve and manage different aspects of work that run concurrently ensuring deadlines are met with a flexible and adaptable approach to work.

About the Role

The External Funding & Contracts function procures and manages all of the college’s subcontracted delivery, identifies funding opportunities, supports the college to prepare strong proposals to secure external funding, and works with curriculum and support departments to ensure the effectively delivery of funded projects and programmes.

Role Responsibilities 

• To ensure the accurate, timely submission of data and returns from supply chain partners, following up non-compliance issues, ensuring up-to-date records are stored and robust evidence is held to substantiate all funds claimed and paid.
• To ensure the smooth co-ordination and maintain accurate up-to-date information relating to supply chain partners.
• To analyse, monitor and report on contract Key Performance Indicators and performance (Financial & Quality)
• To ensure accurate and timely data analysis both financial and quality
• To proactively identify, monitor and report on risk
• To maintain exceptional relationships both across college and externally

Qualifications

• Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject  
• Numeracy and Literacy qualifications (At least Level 2)

Essential Skills & Experience

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent record keeping and organisational skills
• Time management (ability to work to deadlines)
• Ability to work independently, use initiative, problem solve and manage different aspects of work that run concurrently ensuring deadlines are met.
• Competent in using Microsoft Office including Word, Excel and Outlook
• Competent in use of college systems including pro-achieve, pro-solution 
• Competent in data analysis including funding and quality, with the ability to produce accurate, concise reports
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines
• Flexible and adaptable approach to work, to meet business need

Desirable Skills & Experience – (Optional)

• Contemporary understanding of the further education funding & audit rules which relate to area of responsibility
• An understanding of the wider external FE environment, which the college operates, including emerging policy developments relating to area of work. 

What’s in it for you?

Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.

• Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays - (Excluding Term Time Only contracts)
• Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
• LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme - depending on role
• Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.  
• We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.  
• Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
• Free parking on most campuses.
• Free Gym access available at Bede Campus

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We know that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities.

We recognise that talented individuals may not always follow a traditional career path and may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about the role and believe you can make a positive contribution, we encourage you to apply.

As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing environment where everyone can thrive.

Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.  

We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. 

We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

 Please contact michael.mckie@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk should you wish to have an informal chat about the role.

Closing Date: 20 Oct 2026

Team: Support

Salary: £27,956 to £30,468 per annum