Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Category Management team and enhance procurement processes for maximum value.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation in the Higher Education sector, based in Central London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on procurement strategies and drive value in education.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or experience, with knowledge of public sector procurement.
- Other info: Mid-senior level role with excellent career advancement potential.
The predicted salary is between 63374 - 72617 £ per year.
This role is critical to delivering best value through professional procurement practices and robust processes at every stage of the procurement cycle. With responsibility for leading the Category Management team, the post holder will develop and embed effective systems and processes across the Group, while supporting and training staff to achieve consistently high-quality procurement outcomes. The role will also involve deputising for the Group Head of Procurement and Payments across defined areas of responsibility.
- Lead and manage the Category Team across all stages of the procurement process.
- Develop and deliver the Procurement Strategy, managing procurement projects as directed by the Group Head of Procurement and Payments.
- Lead procurement exercises of varying size and complexity, including tenders, frameworks, and mini-competitions.
- Work with internal teams to review and improve procurement practices.
- Produce management reports to demonstrate performance and best practice.
- Manage contracts to ensure ongoing value and effective delivery.
- Review and draft terms and conditions and provide contract-related advice.
About you
- A relevant degree or equivalent experience, and/or a professional qualification such as MCIPS or NVQ Level 6 (or above).
- Experience working in procurement within the Higher Education sector.
- Good knowledge of public sector procurement rules and regulations.
- Experience of understanding and challenging business requirements to deliver better value or services.
- Experience drafting contracts and supporting contract management.
- A track record of delivering value for money across a range of procurements, including tendering, frameworks, and contract management.
- Experience using electronic procurement systems (e.g. Bravo or similar) and finance systems.
- An understanding of project and risk management.
Group Head of Category Management in London employer: Allen Lane
Contact Detail:
Allen Lane Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Head of Category Management in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s procurement strategies and recent projects. We want you to show off your knowledge and how you can add value right from the get-go!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Group Head of Category Management. Highlight your successes in managing procurement processes and delivering value for money.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Head of Category Management in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Group Head of Category Management. Highlight your experience in procurement, especially within the Higher Education sector, and showcase any relevant qualifications like MCIPS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've led procurement projects or improved processes in the past.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve achieved! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you’ve delivered value for money and improved procurement outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen Lane
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of public sector procurement rules and regulations. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated these in past roles, especially within the Higher Education sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Group Head of Category Management, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've managed teams in the past, focusing on how you've developed systems and processes that led to high-quality procurement outcomes.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical procurement challenges. Think about your approach to managing tenders or frameworks and be prepared to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Your Value-Driven Mindset
Highlight your track record of delivering value for money in previous roles. Bring specific examples of how you've improved procurement practices or achieved better services through effective contract management.
