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- Tasks: Lead a team to develop strategies and manage supplier relationships for optimal product offerings.
- Company: Join a dynamic company focused on maximising sales and profitability through innovative category management.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment where your strategic thinking can drive real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management, strong analytical skills, and excellent negotiation abilities are essential.
- Other info: Stay ahead of industry trends while collaborating with diverse teams to launch exciting products.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Do you have procurement experience gained within the housing sector either in a housing association or local authority or similar.
Are you looking for a new challenge and want to be part of a newly created team.
They business has a real passion for social value, sustainability, and ESG objectives in sourcing and contract management activity as well as supporting local economic growth, SME participation, and responsible procurement objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead compliant end‑to‑end procurement activities in line with public sector procurement regulations and internal standing orders (e.g. PCR, PA23).
- Design and run competitive tendering processes (RFQ, ITT, DPS, Frameworks, Call‑offs).
- Negotiate contracts within governance constraints to achieve optimal commercial and service outcomes.
- Ensure contracts are robust, auditable, and compliant with legal, regulatory, and policy requirements.
- Manage strategic supplier relationships and key contracts to ensure performance, value, and compliance.
- Establish and monitor KPIs, SLAs, and contract management frameworks.
- Manage supplier risk, continuity, and performance issues, escalating where necessary.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong public sector category management and strategic sourcing experience.
- In‑depth knowledge of public procurement regulations and governance.
- Advanced negotiation skills within regulated frameworks.
- Contract and supplier management expertise.
- Strong analytical and financial skills, including business case development.
Experience required
- Circa 5+ years\’ experience in public sector procurement
- Solid knowledge of the public sector regs
- Experience managing various categories
- CIPS qualified or studier preferred
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Category Manager employer: 1st Executive
Contact Detail:
1st Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in category management and the specific industry you’re applying to. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of StudySmarter on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your analytical skills and successful negotiation tactics. Being able to discuss these in detail will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on competitor activities and market trends relevant to the category you’ll be managing. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions effectively but also show your proactive approach to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a Category Manager or in similar roles. Focus on your analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and any successful strategies you've implemented in the past.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your strategic thinking and how your previous experiences align with the company's objectives. Mention specific examples of how you've managed supplier relationships and analysed market trends.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Since strong analytical skills are crucial for this role, consider including a section in your application that details your proficiency with data analysis tools like Excel and BI tools. Provide examples of how you've used these skills to drive category performance.
Highlight Team Management Experience: As this role involves managing a small team, be sure to mention any leadership experience you have. Discuss how you've successfully led teams, collaborated with other departments, and achieved business goals together.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Executive
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Category Manager, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data analysis tools like Excel or BI tools to drive decisions in your previous roles. Highlight any successful strategies you developed based on market trends and customer insights.
✨Demonstrate Negotiation Expertise
Negotiating contracts with suppliers is a key part of this role. Share experiences where you successfully negotiated terms that benefited your previous employer. Discuss your approach to building relationships with suppliers and how you ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Prepare examples of how you've managed product assortments, pricing strategies, or promotional campaigns in the past. This will show your ability to think on your feet and apply your experience to real-world situations.
✨Highlight Team Management Experience
Since this role involves managing a small team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully led teams in the past. Share examples of how you've motivated your team, managed multiple projects, and collaborated with other departments to achieve business goals.
