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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage key NHS categories to enhance service delivery.
- Company: Join Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS FT, a leading provider of mental health and disability services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while developing your career in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: CIPS Level 5 or equivalent is essential; 5 years of procurement experience required.
- Other info: This is a permanent, full-time role based in Dorking, Surrey.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 52000 £ per year.
Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
About
Here at Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS FT we have a reputation for being innovative and forward thinking. We actively seek out new ways to work flexibly with partners and are passionate about people. We are one of the leading providers of specialist mental health, drug and alcohol and learning disability services for people of all ages in southern England, working in partnership to offer integrated health and social care, with 2300 excellent staff and a £155m budget. We offer best employment practice and environments for staff in terms of equal opportunities, managing and developing a diverse workforce.
Key details
- Location: Dorking, Surrey
- Contract type: Permanent
- Hours: Full time - 37.5 hours per week
- Salary: £55,877 - £62,626 Per annum, includes Fringe HCA
- Salary period: Yearly
- Grade: NHS AfC: Band 8a
Job Overview
At NHS Commercial Solutions (NHSCS), making a difference is important to us. If you’re motivated and interested in delivering meaningful progress at the NHS, then this role could be for you. We are looking for a Lead Category Manager to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career and category management experience as part of our strategic category teams. These roles will support a range of categories including Estates, Facilities and Digital. They are critical categories and vital to the NHS in supporting the ongoing service pressures across the NHS.
The Role Holder Will
- Support the development and delivery of a strategic and operational procurement service
- Work with stakeholders to ensure that service specifications, procurement evaluation criteria and assessment processes are fit for purpose and will result in the effective procurement of individual services
- Support delivery against an annual procurement delivery plan in line with the organisations objectives to support Acute, Community and Mental Health Trusts for collaborative and independent projects
- Manage a rolling workplan capturing and managing procurement intentions for a range of NHS organisations.
- Drive change and innovation within NHSCS, in order to deliver commercial excellence across the region.
- Take the lead in individual procurements including responsibility for the preparation of tender documentation, undertaking briefings, assessment of bidder documentation according to financial viability, risk, sustainability and alignment with collaborative procurement strategies
- Manage and build relationships within multi-disciplinary procurement project teams
- Provide specialist procurement support and advice to Trust Stakeholders and other partners
- Maintain accurate records in accordance with good commercial practice, Standing Orders and the relevant organisations Freedom of Information Policy
Qualifications
Essential criteria
- CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma or equivalent is Essential
- Degree or equivalent relevant qualifications or experience
Desirable criteria
- Working towards CIPS Level 6 is Desirable, or equivalent qualification or relevant experience.
Experience
Essential criteria
- At least 5 years functional experience in procurement with a clear understanding of best practice techniques in category management.
- Relevant experience to Category Services procurement with a good history of successful delivery
- NHS or Public Sector experience including familiarity with UK and EU legislation/law within procurement is required
Lead Category Manager employer: HwC Ventures
Contact Detail:
HwC Ventures Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the NHS procurement processes and regulations. Understanding the specific frameworks and guidelines that govern procurement in the NHS will give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the NHS procurement field. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with current employees or industry experts who can provide insights and potentially refer you for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with category management in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed procurement projects, particularly in the public sector, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS FT and their recent initiatives. Showing that you understand their mission and values, along with how your skills align with their goals, will make you a more compelling candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Carefully read the job description for the Lead Category Manager position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your procurement experience, particularly in category management. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background aligns with the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight any relevant skills that are mentioned in the job description, such as stakeholder management, procurement evaluation, and knowledge of UK and EU legislation. This will show that you are a strong fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for working in the NHS and making a difference. Be sure to connect your personal values with those of Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS FT.
How to prepare for a job interview at HwC Ventures
✨Understand the NHS Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current challenges and innovations within the NHS, especially in procurement. Being able to discuss recent developments or changes in policy will show your genuine interest and understanding of the sector.
✨Showcase Your Category Management Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in category management. Discuss how you've successfully managed procurement processes and driven change, as this is crucial for the Lead Category Manager role.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Be ready to talk about how you've built and maintained relationships with various stakeholders. The ability to collaborate effectively is key in this role, so share instances where your communication skills made a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask you to solve hypothetical procurement challenges. Think through your approach to managing risks, ensuring compliance, and delivering value, as these are critical aspects of the job.
