At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing and procurement activities to drive innovation and sustainability.
- Company: Join a dynamic Public Sector organisation in the North East.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Hybrid working with flexibility and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact during a transformative period in procurement.
- Qualifications: Three years' experience in Procurement or Category Management, preferably in the Public Sector.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
Cedar Recruitment are currently partnering exclusively with a Public Sector organisation in the North East to recruit two Category Managers on a permanent basis. The role will be to join and support a growing Procurement function during a significant period of transformation.
These positions offer a salary of £50,000-£60,000 per year alongside an excellent benefits package, including access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and employee discounts. The roles are hybrid working, typically requiring three days on site per week, with flexibility depending on demands and project delivery.
Main Duties:- Develop and deliver strategic sourcing and category management approaches across a range of goods and services, achieving value for money, innovation and sustainability.
- Lead end-to-end procurement activity including tendering, negotiation, contract award and contract management for significant spend areas.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, providing commercial and procurement advice, guidance and solutions.
- Develop collaborative relationships with external suppliers and industry bodies to share knowledge and best practice.
- Drive supplier engagement and market collaboration to identify innovation, efficiencies and savings opportunities.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with Public Procurement legislation, governance and organisational policies.
- Monitor supplier performance, spend analysis and category risks to deliver commercial benefits and improved outcomes.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across procurement processes, systems and commercial delivery.
- A minimum of three years experience in Procurement, Commercial, Contract, or Category Management roles within the Public Sector.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and supplier relationship management skills.
- A proven ability to deliver cost savings and manage compliant end to end procurement exercises.
- Previous experience within the UK Public Sector environment would be beneficial.
- Experience of using contract suited NEC/JCT is advantageous.
- Knowledge of, or training in, PA23 regulations would be highly advantageous.
Category Manager employer: Cedar Recruitment
Joining this Public Sector organisation in the North East as a Category Manager offers a unique opportunity to be part of a transformative procurement function that values innovation and sustainability. With a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package, including access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, employees enjoy a supportive work culture that promotes professional growth and collaboration. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment while contributing to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector and let them know you're on the hunt 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 those interviews by researching the organisation's procurement strategies and recent projects. We want you to show off your knowledge and how you can contribute to their transformation journey. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to tailor your approach! When you apply through our website, make sure your application highlights your experience in stakeholder engagement and supplier relationship management. Show them you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you email. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the best candidate for the job!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and any relevant achievements that showcase your skills in strategic sourcing and stakeholder engagement.
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 delivered cost savings or improved supplier relationships in the past.
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of public procurement legislation and best practices in your application. This will show us that you’re not just a good candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in the field.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother 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 Cedar Recruitment
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around strategic sourcing and category management. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in public sector procurement and be ready to discuss how you can bring value for money and innovation to the role.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Think about specific situations where you provided commercial advice or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships, which is crucial for a Category Manager.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical procurement challenges. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills. This will help you showcase your ability to lead end-to-end procurement activities effectively.
✨Highlight Continuous Improvement Initiatives
Think of instances where you've contributed to improving procurement processes or systems. Be prepared to discuss how you monitor supplier performance and identify risks, as this aligns with the role's focus on delivering commercial benefits and improved outcomes.
