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- Tasks: Lead procurement activities and manage supplier relationships to drive social value and sustainability.
- Company: Join a passionate team focused on responsible procurement and local economic growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a newly created team dedicated to social value and sustainability in procurement.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in public sector procurement with strong negotiation and analytical skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ 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? The 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 regulations.
- Experience managing various categories.
- CIPS qualified or studier preferred.
Category Manager in London employer: 1st Executive
Contact Detail:
1st Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your procurement knowledge, especially around public sector regulations. We recommend practising common interview questions related to contract management and supplier relationships to show off your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for social value and sustainability during interviews. Companies love candidates who align with their values, so share examples of how you've contributed to responsible procurement or local economic growth in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who are ready to make an impact in the housing sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your procurement experience, especially in the housing sector. We want to see how your skills align with our passion for social value and sustainability.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your cover letter, showcase your experience with public sector procurement regulations and any specific projects you've led. We love seeing examples of how you've managed supplier relationships and achieved compliance.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your key achievements and skills stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our newly created team.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Executive
✨Know Your Procurement Regulations
Make sure you brush up on public sector procurement regulations like PCR and PA23. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the legal framework you'll be working within.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved optimal outcomes. Highlight your ability to navigate governance constraints while still delivering value, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Sourcing Experience
Be ready to talk about your experience in managing various categories and running competitive tendering processes. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've designed and executed successful RFQs or ITTs.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Social Value
Since the company values social value and sustainability, come prepared with ideas on how you can contribute to these objectives. Discuss any previous initiatives you've been part of that align with their ESG goals.
