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- Tasks: Lead high-value sourcing projects and develop impactful procurement strategies.
- Company: Join a nationally recognised public sector infrastructure organisation with a strong growth trajectory.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, hybrid working, and funded CIPS training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the public sector with clear ownership and visibility.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth in a dynamic procurement environment.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a nationally recognised public sector infrastructure organisation to appoint multiple Category Managers accessible from the Northampton and Leicester area. The procurement function is growing - backed by a government-approved, multi-billion pound investment programme running through to 2029, these hires are part of a deliberate and sustained expansion of commercial capability.
You will be joining a well-established Commercial and Procurement team operating at genuine scale, managing procurement across some of the most complex, high-value categories in the public sector, within a reclassified procurement environment governed by the Procurement Act 2023. Long-term funding is secured, the mandate is clear, and the work reflects that - large-scale, high-visibility, and genuinely impactful.
If you have a strong public sector category management background and want to lead end-to-end category strategies at scale, this is where you want to be. High value. High visibility. Real ownership.
What makes this different- Salary - £45,000 - £55,000
- Pension - Defined benefit pension scheme
- Annual leave - 28 days plus statutory days, with buy/sell flexibility
- Travel subsidy - 75% subsidy on train travel
- Hybrid working - 3 days in the office
- Growth - Multiple positions available within an expanding procurement function
- CIPS Training Funded
- Leading end-to-end, over-threshold sourcing projects in a reclassified procurement environment
- Developing and delivering sourcing strategies and full tender documentation
- Conducting pre-market engagement and complex commercial evaluations
- Negotiating with suppliers and driving demonstrable savings delivery
- Partnering with senior stakeholders across multiple internal functions
- Applying knowledge of contract law and financial management to complex sourcing challenges
- Contributing to continuous improvement and category strategy development
- Public sector procurement experience (essential)
- Recent, demonstrable over-threshold tendering experience outside of a framework (essential)
- Strong working knowledge of regulated procurement (PCR 2015 / Procurement Act 2023)
- Proven negotiation and stakeholder management capability at a senior level
- PA23 training undertaken (desirable)
- Line management experience (desirable)
If you have a strong track record in regulated public sector procurement and want to take ownership of high-value sourcing programmes, contact Omar at jobsos@bramwith.com with your CV or apply via the link below.
Public Sector Category Manager: Strategic Sourcing Lead in Northampton employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Sector Category Manager: Strategic Sourcing Lead in Northampton
✨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 openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and recent tendering experiences. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex sourcing challenges in the past – real examples will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply through job boards; head over to our website and submit your application directly. This shows initiative and gives you a better chance of being noticed by hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can keep you fresh in their minds. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Sector Category Manager: Strategic Sourcing Lead in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your public sector procurement experience and any over-threshold tendering you've done. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Category Manager role. Share specific examples of your achievements in sourcing and stakeholder management that align with our needs.
Showcase Your Knowledge: We’re keen on candidates who understand the Procurement Act 2023 and regulated procurement. Make sure to mention any relevant training or experience you have in this area to stand out from the crowd!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the latest regulations, especially the Procurement Act 2023. Being able to discuss how these laws impact sourcing strategies will show that you're not just familiar with the rules but can also apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant savings or improved supplier relationships. This will demonstrate your capability in driving value and managing stakeholders, which is crucial for a Category Manager role.
✨Understand the Organisation's Goals
Research the public sector organisation and its current projects. Understanding their strategic objectives will allow you to tailor your responses and show how your experience aligns with their needs, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific procurement challenges. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills in these scenarios, as this will highlight your problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.