Senior Procurement and Legal Specialist

ICFO is a leading research center in the field of photonics, dedicated to advancing the science and technology of light and its applications. Located in the Mediterranean Technology Park in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, ICFO is at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation in areas such as quantum technologies, biophotonics, clean tech, and photonic integrated circuits. ICFO employs 500 people, including researchers, PhD students and staff personnel. In its area of specialization and category, the institute is consistently ranked among the highest-quality research institutions worldwide. Our mission is to contribute to scientific knowledge, foster technology transfer, educate of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and promote the responsible engagement of science in society.

POSITION OVERVIEW

ICFO is currently looking for an experienced and highly motivated Senior Procurement and Legal Specialist to join its Legal Department. This position requires strong legal expertise, with a focus on managing procurement processes and official tenders. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing and managing all procurement activities at ICFO, ensuring compliance with public procurement regulations. As the main reference for procurement and related legal processes at ICFO, this position requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various teams.

The role also requires flexibility to collaborate in other legal functions when needed, supporting colleagues specializing in other aspects of law. The selected candidate will report directly to the Chief Financial and Compliance Officer.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As ICFO's Senior Procurement Specialist, your key responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Managing the entire procurement process at ICFO, including public tenders and contract management, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Providing expert legal advice on procurement, tender management, and public contracting to researchers and other staff members.
• Drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts, agreements, and official tender documents with precision and adherence to deadlines.
• Collaborating with other teams to develop efficient procurement processes and workflows.
• Acting as a backup for legal matters related to general counsel, KTT, and project-related legal support when necessary.
• Assisting in reviewing legal documents, managing legal documentation, and providing guidance on Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and other agreements.
• Monitoring changes in public procurement regulations and ensuring ICFO's compliance, also with internal policies and procedures.
• Maintaining organized and accurate legal records, both in paper and electronic formats.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

The appointee will preferably have:

• A University degree in Law.
• Postgraduate studies in public procurement, contract management, or legal affairs.
• Minimum of 5 -years of proven experience in public sector procurement and legal advisory, ideally within a public research center or a STEM-related public entity in Spain.
• High proficiency in English, Spanish and Catalan, both spoken and written.
• Strong advisory and analytical skills, with attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Service orientation, initiative, teamwork abilities, and commitment to organizational standards.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary legal team.

Additional skills and experience that will be valued:

• Experience working with collaborative tools such as Microsoft Teams and SharePoint.
• Familiarity with legal documentation management and public procurement frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to act as a backup for diverse legal functions when required.

WHAT WE OFFER

You will be part of a dynamic and collaborative environment, working closely with researchers, legal advisors, external consultants, and different ICFO teams to ensure the successful management of procurement and legal processes. As a senior member of the legal team, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining compliance and supporting the institute's strategic legal needs.

CONDITIONS

This is a full-time permanent position. The contract offered will be interim if the Oferta Pública d'Ocupació is not approved at the time of incorporation.

A competitive salary within ICFO's salary scales will be offered, commensurate with the seniority of the applicant.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your experience and contact information for two professional references.

Selection will include a pre-screening of applicants based on eligibility and experience, followed by an interview with a short-list of candidates.

Candidates will be notified of the outcome within 15 days of the interview.

ICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

For updated information about ICFO, please visit