Head of Category - ICT

Head of Category

Reporting to: Commercial Director

Dept/Pillar: ICT

Hours: 37 (potentially flexible)

Grade/Salary: From £72,583 (dependent on experience)

Contract Type: Permanent

Vetting Level: NPPV3 & SC

Overview of my Role:
This is an integral role within the BlueLight Commercial team, leading on a dedicated ICT category, providing the delivery of procurement and contract management activities. Setting the commercial vision for specific categories of spend. An agile role where category expertise will be developed from leading on a specific category to acquiring multi-category skills and competence. Leading and managing a team, investing time in their development and performance.

Being responsive to stakeholder needs is key, offering pragmatic solutions whilst developing and nurturing effective networks to exert a positive influence on behalf of BlueLight Commercial. Collaborating closely with the Commercial Director to manage and embed a national category portfolio, developing sustainable commercial strategies that deliver value for money and meet the demands of modern ‘BlueLight’ customers, such as policing.

This role is as much about personal qualities as it is about technical knowledge. Calling on influencing and collaboration skills to encourage and effect cultural change. A trusted and dedicated ‘commercial advisor/expert’ who can establish positive working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including Police Chiefs, Police and Crime Commissioners, Heads of Service, and Commercial Leads.

My Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

Delivery of Commercial Work:

• Developing and setting the commercial vision for specific categories of spend which will deliver the best commercial outcomes for policing and partners.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to develop and implement category strategies that include commercial and demand profiles.
• Demonstrating elevated levels of commercial acumen.
• Developing strategic relationships which include continuous improvement and innovative contract solutions.
• Working collaboratively with a variety of internal stakeholders.
• Leading and supporting teams, managing across the full commercial lifecycle of complex national contracts.
• Contributing to the preparation of strategic plans.
• Working with financial processes and tools to evaluate options.
• Driving and encouraging innovative thinking across the wider team.

Performance & Monitoring:

• Collaborating effectively with suppliers and stakeholders to develop positive contract performance measures.
• Providing expert advice on commercial risk management.
• Promoting and implementing common standards and processes.
• Ensuring adherence to legal, regulatory, and security requirements.

Stakeholders & Relationships:

• Creating strong and effective relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Supporting team members and stakeholders to develop capability.
• Managing relationships with professionalism.
• Mentoring and coaching teams and colleagues.
• Undertaking any other work as directed by your line manager.

Qualifications & Accreditations:

• CIPS Level 6 qualified, or working towards it, or equivalent qualification.
• Successful completion of a recognised leadership programme or demonstrate at least 5 years leadership experience.

Experience & Knowledge:

• 3 years minimum experience in a senior commercial/category role.
• Experience of managing strategic commercial relationships.
• Excellent knowledge of category management and strategic procurement processes.
• Demonstrable commercial awareness and acumen.
• Experience in sourcing, implementing, and managing new contracts.
• Proven success in leading the full end-to-end commercial cycle.
• Successful leadership and team management experience.

Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal & communication skills.
• Negotiating and influencing in a positive manner.
• Identifying risks and creating commercially astute solutions.

Our Values:

• Be the best
• Be responsible
• Be a team
• Be open
• Be the difference

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We foster a work environment that is inclusive as well as diverse.

What We Offer – Total Rewards Package:

• Starting salary from £72,583 (DOE).
• Quality equipment for successful remote working.
• 12% Employer pension contribution.
• Pension salary sacrifice scheme.
• Life insurance 4 x salary.
• 28 days annual leave (rising on service).
• Birthday Leave (1 x extra day per year).
• Paid bank holiday leave.
• Occupational sick pay.
• Wellness – free vouchers for eye test and flu jab.
• Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing.
• 1 x annual professional subscription.
• Access to free training & e-learning.
• Support for your role and career development success.

CLOSING DATE: 16th February 2025

INTERVIEWING: week commencing 24th February 2025

* Please let us know confidentially if you require any adjustments in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

The legal bit:

The successful applicant will be subject to pre-employment checks including medical screening and vetting (NPPV3).

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