Are you a strategic procurement leader with a strong understanding of public sector procurement and the Procurement Act 2023? We’re looking for a Category Manager to lead and develop procurement services across key public sector categories, ensuring compliant, value-driven outcomes for our customers.
You’ll lead a small team of Buyers, shape category and contract strategies, and work closely with public sector stakeholders and suppliers to deliver robust, transparent, and compliant procurement solutions.
What You’ll Do
* Lead the development and delivery of public sector category strategies, aligned to organisational objectives and the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023
* Design, implement, and oversee contract and framework management approaches to ensure consistency, transparency, and compliance across public sector customers
* Monitor contract and supplier performance using KPIs, audits, and compliance reviews, driving continuous improvement
* Manage strategic supplier relationships, including dispute resolution, performance improvement plans, and enforcement of contractual remedies where required
* Work collaboratively with procurement teams and stakeholders early in the procurement lifecycle to embed measurable KPIs, social value, and performance outcomes
* Ensure all procurement activity complies with PA 2023, associated regulations, and internal governance and policy requirements
* Lead, motivate, and develop a team of Buyers, including performance management, KPI delivery, and identification of training and development needs
* Act as a subject matter expert on public sector procurement legislation and best practice, supporting internal capability building
What We’re Looking For
* Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience
* MCIPS qualified (or working towards) with strong public sector procurement expertise
* Demonstrable experience delivering large-scale public sector procurement activities, including frameworks or complex contracts
* Strong working knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and its practical application
* Proven leadership experience with strong stakeholder engagement across public sector organisations
* A confident communicator and negotiator, able to operate effectively in regulated environments
* Full driving licence desirable
What We Offer
In return, we offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
* Income Protection – 75% of salary covered if unable to work due to illness (post-probation)
* Life Assurance – 4x basic salary paid as a tax-free lump sum (post-probation)
* Private Medical Insurance (PMI) – Fully funded cover with family extension options (post-probation)
* Health Cash Plan – Reimbursement for medical expenses and discounted gym membership (post-probation)
* Pension Scheme – 5% employer match with salary exchange option
* Holiday Trading – Buy or sell up to 5 days annually
* Cycle to Work Scheme – Salary sacrifice bike purchases up to £1,000 (post-probation)
* Electric Vehicle Scheme – Lease an EV via salary sacrifice (eligible after 12 months)
* Employee Support Services – Legal, financial, bereavement, and medical advice (immediate eligibility)
* Exclusive Mobile Deals – Discounted EE contracts for employees and up to 5 friends/family
Join our team and be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to delivering compliant, transparent, and socially responsible public sector procurement. Your expertise will be valued, and your leadership will help shape the future of procurement under the Procurement Act 2023.