At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement projects and develop strategies that drive value and savings.
- Company: Join GSA, a community-focused organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a team that supports affordable housing and community services.
- Why this job: Use your skills to create positive change in communities through effective procurement.
- Qualifications: Proven procurement experience and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Are you an experienced procurement professional looking for an opportunity to make a real difference? Join
GSA and help us deliver outstanding procurement solutions that maximise value, savings and social value for the communities we serve.
As a key member of our procurement team, you will manage a range of assigned spend categories and lead procurement activity from initial planning and strategy through to tendering, contract award and ongoing contract management.
- What you’ll be doing
- Lead end-to-end procurement projects , developing and delivering effective category strategies aligned with business priorities.
- Work closely with stakeholders to understand requirements, shape procurement strategies and deliver commercially effective solutions.
- Maximise value for money, savings and social value across procurement activity.
- Ensure compliance with
Group Procurement Policy , the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and Procurement Act 2023, where applicable.
- Provide advice and guidance on contract management , supplier performance and procurement best practice.
- Evaluate supplier and tender responses, including written, financial and contractual information.
- Maintain accurate contract data, reporting and procurement records in line with legal and organisational requirements.
- Build strong relationships across the organisation and influence stakeholders to achieve the best commercial outcomes.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and positive change , taking a proactive and solutions-focused approach.
About You
We’re looking for someone who can combine strong procurement expertise with commercial awareness, sound judgement and excellent relationship-building skills.
You will have
- Proven procurement experience , with a suitable level of CIPS qualification or equivalent career experience.
- Good knowledge of the
Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and Procurement Act 2023 .
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
- Experience evaluating suppliers, tenders and contractual information.
- A good understanding of contract documentation and contract management.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving, process improvement and delivering change.
- Strong commercial and business awareness.
- Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly
Word and Excel .
Why GSA?
GSA provides affordable homes and services that create a foundation from which people in our communities can thrive. We own and manage
25,000 homes across the West Midlands and Southwest , supporting individuals and families to build better futures.
From affordable housing to care, money advice and coaching, our work makes a lasting difference to people’s lives.
Join GSA and use your procurement expertise to deliver commercial excellence with purpose.
Please note: successful candidates will be required to complete a DBS check. Further details will be provided following an offer.
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Category Manager in Birmingham employer: GreenSquareAccord
At GreenSquareAccord, we pride ourselves on being an employer that champions community well-being and personal growth. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing our Tenancy Enforcement Officers to make a meaningful impact in Birmingham and surrounding areas. With a commitment to professional development and a focus on creating safer, stronger communities, we offer a rewarding environment for those passionate about social justice and housing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Birmingham
✨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 GreenSquareAccord.
✨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 Manager in Birmingham
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 GreenSquareAccord:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to GreenSquareAccord. 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 GreenSquareAccord.
How to prepare for a job interview at GreenSquareAccord
✨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 GreenSquareAccord!
✨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 GreenSquareAccord. 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 GreenSquareAccord's culture.
