At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing programmes and manage procurement projects across NHS Trusts.
- Company: Join Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in healthcare procurement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the NHS by driving innovation and collaboration in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior procurement roles, especially in Digital Health or complex categories.
The predicted salary is between 62900 - 74900 £ per year.
Overview
Senior Category Manager - Commercial Delivery. NHS AfC: Band 8b. Contract: Permanent. Hours: 37.5 hours per week (hybrid working remote and office based).
Employer: Guy\'s and St Thomas\' NHS Foundation Trust. Site: NHS London Procurement Partnership. Salary: £72,921 - £83,362 p.a inc HCA. Closing: 19/10/2025 23:59. Interview date: 31/10/2025.
Job overview
Would you like to join an ambitious procurement collaborative organisation to support with the development and implementation of ambitious strategies in the Commercial Delivery team?
The role will require an ability to work alongside both senior external clinical and operational teams as well as senior level stakeholders on a regional and national basis to drive innovation and collaboration, primarily in the Digital space. The role will also require the leadership of a small team of Category Managers.
Along with significant senior procurement experience that includes Digital Health/ Technology or other complex spend category, you will be able to demonstrate experience in stakeholder management and category management. Significant supplier engagement, contract negotiation and contract management experience along with a record of achieving substantial transformation and value for money will also be key to success.
Main duties of the job
- To develop and lead a specific strategic sourcing programme for defined categories, across a number of NHS Trusts, taking the lead on specific/allocated portfolio of sourcing categories, and contributing significantly to the delivery of allocated procurement projects within key timelines.
- To support the Category Director and team in the delivery of cost and efficiency savings across a large number of Member Trusts, by analysing current spend information to develop procurement plans.
- To ensure contract compliance across the NHS LPP, pursuing procurement excellence through the implementation of efficient and effective procurement projects. Meeting customer requirements by demonstrating best value for money, through compliance with category priorities and contracts, and by actively managing the market place through development of key strategies for supplier and contract management.
- Working with the Category Director and team in developing networks by providing input into appropriate NHS LPP projects. Liaising with colleagues at all levels to ensure compliance in the use of agreed standardised and compliant products and services.
- Be responsible for leading a team of category managers.
- Proactively engage, build and maintain collaborative working relationships with NHS Trusts.
- Provide specialist commercial advice and support, to local, regional and national NHS procurement and contract management initiatives.
- Lead a portfolio of procurement and contract management projects, in support of NHS organisations around the country, ensuring initiatives are developed to deliver value for money.
- Ensure all procurement and contract management activities operate in full accordance with the relevant legislation.
- Be responsible for developing, implementing, monitoring and reviewing procurement strategies for allocated categories, through detailed demand/ market analysis, to ensure continual improvement and innovation in service.
- Require an awareness and implementation of national procurement initiatives undertaken by Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England, NHS Supply Chain/ SCCL, cross Government Agencies and Crown Commercial Service.
- Undertake proactive identification and management of risk throughout the procurement process.
Working for our organisation
Please note that NHS LPP has been hosted by Guy’s & St Thomas’ (GSTT) NHS Foundation Trust since 2012 and provides the legal framework and supporting services under which NHS LPP operates. NHS LPP staff are employed by GSTT. However, NHS LPP is a membership organisation funded and governed by its members and not GSTT. NHS LPP develops and manages collaborative procurement projects on behalf of its members including acute, community and mental health trusts, as well as CCGs. NHS LPP has members outside of London. This role requires managing complex collaborative procurements within the normal NHS membership but also working with other public sector bodies, advising and managing their procurement processes to deliver benefit to the wider public sector. The organisation will continue to develop asa centre of commercial excellence that delivers significant and sustainable cost and service improvements to all stakeholders primarily in the London NHS economy but also outside London.
We are Accredited by Investors In People & Disability Awareness.
Education, experience and qualifications
Qualifications
- Member of Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) or appropriate professional institute or relevant experience
- Procurement Procedures workshops
- Recognised advanced computer training courses
- Masters or equivalent plus senior specialist procurement knowledge and experience
Experience
- Understanding of NHS, wider public procurement and commercial world
- Senior specialist commercial / industry experience in procurement and supply in a senior management role
Skills
- People Management - the ability to manage, influence and lead people who may or may not be direct reports
- Time Management - the ability to manage and priorities project activities and the workload of the Business Unit.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to providing flexible working arrangements where possible. Applications are welcome from applicants with a disability. We will make reasonable adjustments and support throughout the application process. Equality of opportunity is our policy.
Due to recent changes in UK immigration rules affecting Skilled Worker Visas and related categories, please ensure you are able to meet the requirements to live and work in the UK before applying. Further information is available on the UK Government website.
Please apply for this post by clicking \"Apply Online Now.\"
Important notices
The Trust will not request payment at any stage of the recruitment process. Please report any suspicious activity to your local law enforcement and contact your bank if you have concerns. The Trust will advertise job opportunities on our website, NHS Jobs, LinkedIn, Indeed or Find a Job.
Senior Category Manager - Commercial Delivery (NHS AfC: Band 8b) - Procurement - Guy\'s and St T[...] in City of London employer: Guys & St Thomas Hospital
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the procurement sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Located in London, this role provides the unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects that enhance healthcare delivery across the NHS.
Contact Details:
Guys & St Thomas Hospital Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager - Commercial Delivery (NHS AfC: Band 8b) - Procurement - Guy\'s and St T[...] in City of London
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager - Commercial Delivery (NHS AfC: Band 8b) - Procurement - Guy\'s and St T[...] in City of London
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 Guys & St Thomas Hospital:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Guys & St Thomas Hospital. 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 Guys & St Thomas Hospital.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guys & St Thomas Hospital
✨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 Guys & St Thomas Hospital!
✨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 Guys & St Thomas Hospital. 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 Guys & St Thomas Hospital's culture.