Job Summary
We are looking for a commercially astute Category Manager to lead strategic procurement across a high profile portfolio spanning Major Capital Projects or Hard FM. The role supports the safe, compliant and effective operation of healthcare facilities across the Devon Health Care System.
Key Organisations
* Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
* Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
* Devon Partnership NHS Trust
* University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
* Livewell Community Services
Key Responsibilities
* Take ownership of a diverse and evolving portfolio across major capital projects or Hard FM, leading procurement activity across the full lifecycle from early market engagement to contract award, mobilisation and performance management.
* Lead category strategy development across major capital projects or Hard FM services aligned to organisational priorities.
* Design and deliver procurement routes including frameworks, further competitions and open procedures.
* Structure and negotiate complex contracts, including construction, consultancy (JCT / NEC) and/or service models (TFM, term service, specialist compliance).
* Work closely with estates, clinical and operational teams to shape specifications, delivery models and performance regimes.
* Provide commercial leadership on business cases, affordability, outsourcing models and risk allocation.
* Ensure compliance with the Procurement Act 2023 and NHS governance requirements.
* Drive value beyond cost, including social value, sustainability, supply chain resilience and SME engagement.
What Success Looks Like
* Procurement is recognised as a strategic partner across both capital and estates delivery.
* Projects and services are delivered through robust, compliant and commercially sound approaches.
* Stakeholders are engaged, informed and confident in procurement‑led solutions.
* Measurable benefits are delivered across cost, quality, performance and resilience.
* Supply chains are high‑performing, collaborative and aligned to NHS priorities.
Working With Us
* Hybrid working across Devon with a base at any of the main sites (Plymouth, Exeter, Torbay, Barnstaple); occasional travel required.
* Part of a friendly, supportive and high‑performing team committed to transforming how procurement enables healthcare delivery.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
* Demonstrable experience in category‑management leadership.
* Knowledge and experience of over‑threshold procurement processes and Government procurement frameworks.
* Strong knowledge of public procurement regulations (Procurement Act 2023).
* Experience delivering capital, construction or Hard FM procurement in a complex environment.
* Experience with construction contracts (JCT / NEC) and/or service contracts (maintenance, compliance, lifecycle, TFM).
* Strong commercial acumen, including contract structuring, pricing models and risk management.
* Ability to influence senior stakeholders and challenge constructively.
* Strategic mindset, linking procurement decisions to delivery and operational outcomes.
* MCIPS (or working towards) or equivalent commercial experience.
* Relevant qualification to degree level or equivalent demonstrable experience.
* Proven evidence of continuing professional development at postgraduate or masters level.
* Ability to interpret policies and procedures and act on own initiative.
Desirable
* Experience of NHS or regulated business case development.
* Experience of policy implementation or supporting discrete policy or service development.
* Experience proactively monitoring usage trends to support compliance and contract terms, enabling cost savings.
* Experience in line management of direct reports, including staff development, performance management and recruitment.
* Experience training teams and delivering workshop‑style training to service users.
* Strong negotiation skills and a broad range of skill sets.
Compliance & Checks
* Disclosure and Barring Service Check required.
* Certificate of Sponsorship available for skilled worker applicants.
Employer
* University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
* Address: Plymouth, Exeter, Torbay, Barnstaple – PL6 5YE
#J-18808-Ljbffr