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- Tasks: Lead procurement and commercial management for IT categories in the public sector.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on delivering value-for-money solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible hourly rate, professional development, and a chance to make an impact.
- Why this job: Shape strategic procurement processes and work with high-value contracts.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: 3 days onsite in Berkshire; excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Copello are recruiting for a Senior Category Manager to lead the end-to-end procurement and commercial management of IT / Information Systems (IS) categories within a complex public sector environment, on an initial 12 month contract. This role will play a key part in delivering compliant, value-for-money procurement solutions while supporting strategic commercial objectives.
The successful candidate will bring strong public sector procurement expertise, ideally with MOD or wider public sector experience, and a proven track record of managing complex IT/IS categories from strategy through to contract delivery.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the end-to-end category management lifecycle for IT / IS, including market analysis, category strategy development, sourcing, evaluation, award, and contract mobilisation.
- Deliver compliant public sector procurements in line with relevant regulations (e.g. PCR 2015, CCS frameworks, and upcoming Procurement Act requirements).
- Develop and implement category strategies aligned to organisational objectives and value-for-money principles.
- Manage complex tender processes, including competitive procedures, framework call-offs, and direct awards where appropriate.
- Provide strong commercial and contract management, including supplier performance management, risk management, and dispute resolution.
- Lead negotiations on high-value and high-risk contracts, ensuring robust commercial outcomes.
- Engage effectively with internal stakeholders, including IT, legal, finance, and senior leadership, to shape requirements and deliver solutions.
- Support continuous improvement of procurement processes, governance, and commercial capability.
- Ensure robust documentation, audit trails, and governance in line with public sector standards.
- Proven experience as a Senior Category Manager or equivalent within the public sector.
- MOD experience or strong exposure to regulated public sector environments is highly desirable.
- Demonstrable experience of end-to-end procurement of IT / IS categories (e.g. software, hardware, digital services, managed services).
- Strong working knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and framework.
- Extensive commercial and contract management experience, including supplier performance and risk management.
- Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and influence at senior levels.
- Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience working in fast-paced, high-governance environments.
- CIPS qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent.
- Experience working with CCS or other government frameworks.
- Understanding of security-cleared or sensitive environments (MOD or defence-related procurement).
Role will require 3 days onsite per week in Berkshire.
This role is offering a flexible hourly rate based on experience.
Senior Category Manager in Reading employer: Copello
Contact Detail:
Copello Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector, especially those with MOD experience. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on procurement regulations and frameworks. We recommend practising common interview questions related to category management and showcasing your negotiation skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior Category Manager role. We’re always looking for talented individuals who can bring value to our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in public sector procurement and any specific IT/IS categories you've managed. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use quantifiable results to demonstrate how you’ve delivered value-for-money solutions and managed complex tender processes. This will help us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position and our mission.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Copello
✨Know Your Procurement Regulations
Make sure you brush up on public sector procurement regulations like PCR 2015 and CCS frameworks. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the compliance landscape and can navigate it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Category Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of your experience managing IT/IS categories from strategy to contract delivery. Highlight any complex tender processes you've led, as this will demonstrate your capability in handling the end-to-end lifecycle.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you've successfully engaged with various stakeholders in the past. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve influenced senior leadership or collaborated with IT and legal teams to shape requirements.
✨Demonstrate Negotiation Prowess
Be prepared to discuss your negotiation strategies for high-value contracts. Share specific instances where you achieved robust commercial outcomes, as this will illustrate your ability to manage risk and deliver value.