At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for Soft FM, manage a Category Manager, and develop strategies.
- Company: Join Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust, a top-rated community healthcare provider.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, training support, accommodation assistance, and a car lease scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in community healthcare while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and category management is essential.
- Other info: Rated Good by the Care Quality Commission, we prioritise community health.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
NWL Procurement Services (“NWL PS”) is part of Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust, and provides procurement and supply chain management services across all members (“NWL Members”). We are seeking a Head of Category who is accountable for the effective management of and the value delivery for the procurement of goods and services across the Soft FM Category.
They will be responsible for line managing a Category Manager, and ensuring effective development and maintenance of Category Strategy, Category Plan and Commercial Strategy. The Head of Category shall be responsible for inputting to the development of the Category Strategy. Working closely with the Category Director to effectively engage with senior stakeholders in relevant NHS & government bodies to understand requirements and to work closely with Deliver and Enable colleagues to continually review and input to the Category Strategy to ensure that deliver the NWL PS strategy and corporate objectives.
The post holder will contribute to elements of the overall commercial lifecycle, including Category Strategy and Category policy development and understanding NWL Member requirements. This will be done through the development of Category Management strategies, understanding of the supplier/market landscape, and delivering timely and effective support, guidance, and expertise to the businesses.
Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) is one of the largest community healthcare organisations in London and Hertfordshire, providing our services to diverse communities/boroughs in 11 London Boroughs - Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea, Merton, Richmond, Wandsworth, Westminster - and Hertfordshire.
We Can Offer You:
- A comprehensive induction into the community service followed by a local induction to introduce you to the role
- Single occupancy accommodation in Central London – (we can help you find accommodation in London, support you with your deposit)
- Support with gaining your driving license *T&C’s apply
- Car lease scheme *T&C’s apply
- Flexible working options
- Annual travel card loan
- Training, support and development in your career
We are rated Good by the Care Quality Commission and are ranked among top NHS employers. Community healthcare is our focus and our passion. We champion the role of community health professionals to make sure our patients get great care closer to home.
For further details / informal visits contact:
Name: Emma Chryssikos
Job title: Category Director
Email address:
Telephone number: 07507 645 865
Head of Category - Soft FM employer: Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust
Contact Detail:
Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Category - Soft FM
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the NHS procurement landscape. Understanding how procurement works within the NHS and the specific challenges faced by NWL PS will give you an edge in discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the healthcare procurement sector. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and developing category strategies. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives that align with the responsibilities of the Head of Category role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the current trends in Soft FM services within the NHS. Being knowledgeable about recent developments and innovations in this area will demonstrate your commitment and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Category - Soft FM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Category - Soft FM position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management, particularly in the Soft FM category. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and develop strategies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for community healthcare. Mention how your experience aligns with the values and objectives of NWL Procurement Services.
Highlight Stakeholder Engagement Skills: Since the role involves engaging with senior stakeholders, emphasise any previous experience you have in stakeholder management. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with various parties to achieve common goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust
✨Understand the Soft FM Landscape
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the Soft FM category. Research current trends, challenges, and opportunities within this sector. Being able to discuss these insights will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
As the Head of Category, you'll need to engage with senior stakeholders effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships, particularly in a healthcare or public sector context. This will highlight your ability to navigate complex environments.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions around category strategy development and implementation. Be ready to discuss how you would approach creating a Category Strategy that aligns with NWL PS's objectives. Think about frameworks or methodologies you've used in the past that could apply here.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Team Management
Since you'll be managing a Category Manager, it's crucial to showcase your leadership style. Prepare to discuss how you motivate and develop team members, as well as how you handle challenges within a team setting. This will show that you're not just a strategic thinker but also a capable leader.