At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-value procurement for Digital and Data, driving innovation in technology.
- Company: Established public sector organisation with a focus on transformation.
- Benefits: NHS Pension, flexible hours, 22-25 days holiday, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Opportunity to work autonomously and influence key stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on digital transformation and work with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, particularly in Digital and Data/IT sectors.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
We’re recruiting for an experienced Category Specialist - Information Management & Technology to join an established public sector organisation based in Derby. This is a senior procurement and commercial role focused on Digital and Data, supporting complex transformation programmes across areas including cloud services, EPR and clinical systems, infrastructure, cyber security, data platforms, AI-enabled technologies and strategic technology partnerships.
Location: Derby, option to work hybrid (2 days from home)
Type: Permanent role
Salary: £47,440
Benefits: NHS Pension (9.8%), flexible working hours, 22 days holiday rising to 25
Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week, flexible between 7am-7pm
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you’ll take responsibility for developing category strategies and delivering complex, high-value procurement activity across Digital and Data. You’ll work closely with Digital, Data, Clinical, Operational, Finance and Governance teams, providing commercial expertise throughout the procurement lifecycle and helping the organisation achieve value for money while maintaining appropriate governance, service resilience and supplier performance.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Develop and deliver Digital and Data category strategies.
- Lead complex, high-value procurement and sourcing exercises from initial market engagement through to evaluation and contract award.
- Support major digital transformation programmes across cloud, infrastructure, EPR, cyber security, interoperability, data and AI technologies.
- Provide commercial advice around contract structures, pricing models and risk.
- Manage key technology suppliers and strategic supplier relationships.
- Monitor supplier performance against contractual obligations, SLAs, KPIs and quality standards.
- Manage commercial and supplier risk, including data protection, information governance and cyber security considerations.
- Use market intelligence, benchmarking, spend analysis and data to inform commercial decisions.
- Work closely with senior stakeholders to translate technical and operational requirements into effective procurement strategies.
- Support wider procurement and cost-improvement activity across the organisation where required.
About You
- Significant procurement or category management experience.
- Previous Digital and Data/IT procurement and contract management experience.
- Experience managing complex procurement exercises and contracts.
- Strong commercial and supplier-management skills.
- The ability to work autonomously and use sound commercial judgement.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- The confidence to work with technical specialists and senior stakeholders.
- Previous experience within the NHS, healthcare or wider public sector would be advantageous, as would knowledge of public procurement regulations/frameworks and a CIPS qualification or equivalent experience.
Category Specialist - IT in Derby employer: Distinct Recruitment Careers
Join a purpose-led organisation in Oxfordshire as the Director of Corporate & Finance, where you will enjoy a four-day working week and the flexibility of predominantly remote work. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, this role offers the opportunity to influence strategic decisions at Board level while managing public funding and governance in a supportive and collaborative environment. Benefit from a generous pension scheme, healthcare support, and a commitment to work-life balance, making this an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Distinct Recruitment Careers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Specialist - IT in Derby
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Distinct Recruitment Careers.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Specialist - IT in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Distinct Recruitment Careers:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Distinct Recruitment Careers. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Distinct Recruitment Careers.
How to prepare for a job interview at Distinct Recruitment Careers
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Distinct Recruitment Careers!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Distinct Recruitment Careers. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Distinct Recruitment Careers's culture.
