Senior Category Manager

Category Manager – London Hybrid

£550 per day inside IR35, initial 4‑month contract with potential for extension.

Location: Hybrid, central London office.

We are looking for a Category Manager to join a large, research‑led organisation with significant third‑party spend. The role will operate in a highly regulated, stakeholder‑rich environment and will focus on delivering value for money, sustainable procurement, and long‑term strategic impact.

The Role

Reporting to senior commercial leadership, you will act as a senior manager within the procurement and commercial category team, leading sourcing and contract management activity and working closely with internal stakeholders to deliver optimised commercial solutions that align with strategic and sustainability objectives. You will also contribute to the wider Commercial Leadership Team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver category and procurement plans aligned to organisational and sustainability priorities
• Lead and manage large‑scale, complex tenders and competitive procurement exercises
• Negotiate robust value‑for‑money commercial and contractual arrangements
• Advise stakeholders on compliance, competition requirements, and sole‑source justifications
• Interpret grant award documentation and establish appropriate supplier, service, and research‑related agreements, including Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs)
• Manage e‑catalogues and oversee contract transition and supplier onboarding activity
• Develop and operate a tiered Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) approach
• Drive non‑pay savings, demand management, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Line‑manage, recruit, and develop high‑performing commercial professionals
• Build strong, credible relationships with senior stakeholders across a complex organisation

What you will have

• Degree‑level qualification or equivalent professional experience
• Evidence of ongoing professional development (CIPS accreditation desirable)
• Extensive experience in strategic procurement, contract management, and negotiation
• Strong leadership and people‑management capability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A collaborative, evidence‑based, and innovative approach to commercial problem‑solving

The ideal candidate will have experience working within Higher Education or the Public sector, although this is not essential.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a renowned organisation with potential for contract extension.