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- Tasks: Support procurement activities and manage supplier engagements in a dynamic public sector environment.
- Company: Established not-for-profit organisation with a strong reputation for collaboration and community service.
- Benefits: Earn up to £40,000, enjoy 43 days leave, hybrid working, and health support.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to sustainability and social value.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in procurement and contract management.
- Qualifications: Procurement experience preferred; CIPS Level 4 or higher is ideal.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking an Assistant Category Manager to support procurement activity across a busy public sector environment. You'll work on a range of tenders and supplier engagements, helping deliver compliant, value-for-money outcomes. The role is paying up to £40,000 per annum, plus an attractive 43 days leave (including public holidays).
This Birmingham based organisation is long-established with a strong reputation. It has built a distinctive profile around close collaboration with business and the public sector. Located in the heart of the city, the organisation serves a diverse community. As a not-for-profit institution, surplus income is reinvested ensuring long-term sustainability and continued public benefit. It is also committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, and delivering measurable social value through its activities.
The role supports the delivery of a compliant, value driven procurement service within a public sector environment. The Assistant Category Manager will work closely with Category Managers to deliver end to end procurement activity, including tenders, supplier engagement, and contract management.
- Deliver end to end procurement exercises (RFQs, tenders, further competitions).
- Support above threshold tenders under the Procurement Act 2023.
- Prepare tender documentation, evaluation, and contract award.
- Engage with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with PCR 2015 and procurement legislation.
- Maintain procurement records using e-tendering systems.
- Support contract management and KPI tracking.
- Report savings (cashable and non-cashable).
- Manage procurement queries and shared inboxes.
Ideally you will be working towards CIPS Level 4 (or higher). Procurement experience (public sector preferred). Knowledge of procurement processes and compliance. Experience with frameworks and e-tendering systems (e.g. ProContract, Delta). Strong analytical, organisational and communication skills. Experience in contract management and savings delivery. Knowledge of Procurement Act 2023. Higher Education sector experience is desirable.
£31,000 - £40,000 per annum. 30 days annual leave + 8 public holidays + 5 additional close down days. Compassionate leave. Attractive pension scheme. Hybrid working. Flexible working policy. CPD Allowance. Health & well-being support. Cycle to work scheme. Access to gym and swimming pool. Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
Assistant Category Manager in Birmingham employer: EA First
Contact Detail:
EA First Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Category Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the procurement field, especially those who work in public sector roles. 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 your knowledge of procurement processes and compliance. We recommend practising common interview questions related to tenders and supplier engagement to show you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tracked savings or managed contracts in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact and value.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Category Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Category Manager role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially in the public sector, and any relevant qualifications like CIPS Level 4. 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 passionate about procurement and how you can contribute to our mission of delivering value-for-money outcomes. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a bit of personality!
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance is key in this role, make sure to mention your understanding of procurement legislation, including the Procurement Act 2023. We want to know that you can navigate the rules while still delivering great results.
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 EA First
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on procurement processes and compliance, especially the Procurement Act 2023. Familiarise yourself with e-tendering systems like ProContract or Delta, as these will likely come up in conversation.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've used your analytical skills in past roles. Think of specific examples where you've tracked savings or managed contracts effectively. This will demonstrate your ability to deliver value-for-money outcomes.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Be ready to engage in hypothetical scenarios related to supplier engagement or tender documentation. Practising how you'd handle these situations can show your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Values
Since the organisation values equality, diversity, and sustainability, think about how your personal values align with theirs. Be prepared to share examples of how you've contributed to these areas in your previous roles.