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- Tasks: Lead procurement activities and develop strategic plans for a reputable housing provider.
- Company: Join one of the Midlands' top housing providers with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 28 days leave, family-friendly policies, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a social impact while optimising supplier performance in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in regulated procurement and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a home-based role with occasional travel; recent experience is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are currently partnering with one of the Midlands most reputable housing providers who are looking to appoint a Category Manager on a 24 month FTC , paying up to up to £50,715 per annum.
The role will be mainly home based with occasional travel to Midlands offices.
You’ll lead complex, compliant sourcing activities and develop strategic category plans that align with both operational needs and long-term goals. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you’ll play a critical role in optimising supplier performance, delivering social value, and embedding best-in-class procurement practices.
Daily duties will include (but not limited to):
- Leading end-to-end procurement activity across a diverse portfolio, aligned to the new Procurement Act 2024
- Developing and delivering category strategies using structured methodologies
- Championing compliant, value-for-money outcomes through competitive tendering and strong supplier engagement
- Collaborating with finance and operational teams to ensure budgets, sourcing plans, and contract performance are aligned
- Mentoring junior colleagues and contribute to organisation-wide procurement maturity and innovation
- Driving performance monitoring, contract handovers, and continuous improvement initiatives
Experience required:
- Strong experience in regulated procurement, ideally with exposure to public sector or housing environments
- Excellent understanding of the Procurement Act 2024 and public procurement principles
- Proven track record in managing sourcing lifecycles, developing category strategies, and influencing senior stakeholders
- Commercially astute, with an eye for innovation, risk management, and long-term value
- A collaborative, proactive mindset with excellent communication skills
Rewards and Benefits:
- Up to 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with the opportunity to buy and sell leave
- Family friendly policies
- Access to an employee assistance programme, discounted gym membership and exclusive discounts
- Health Cash Plan worth up to £1700 p/a
- Pension scheme with minimum employee contributions of up to 3% and employer of up to 12%
- Employee reward and recognition scheme with wellbeing hub and discount from a wide range of retailers
Working hours:
- Monday – Friday
- 9.00am – 5.00pm
Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.
James Andrews is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.
At James Andrews Recruitment Solutions we try to respond to all applications personally, however, due to the high volume of applications this is not always possible. If you have not heard back from us within 72 hours, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Don’t forget our recommendation scheme: Recommend a friend or colleague to us and receive up to £100 each once they have completed 20 days in a role via James Andrews! Terms and conditions apply, contact us for details.
Category Manager employer: James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2024 and its implications for public sector procurement. Understanding this legislation will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliant sourcing practices.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the housing sector or public procurement. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed sourcing lifecycles and developed category strategies in previous roles. Being able to articulate your experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative mindset by thinking of ways you can contribute to team dynamics and mentor junior colleagues. Highlighting your leadership skills and willingness to support others can make a strong impression during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Category Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required experience, especially in regulated procurement and public sector environments.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience that aligns with the job requirements. Emphasise your track record in managing sourcing lifecycles, developing category strategies, and influencing senior stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the Procurement Act 2024 and how your skills can contribute to optimising supplier performance and delivering social value. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a managerial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Understand the Procurement Act 2024
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the Procurement Act 2024 and its implications for public sector procurement. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these regulations and how you can apply them in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented category strategies in previous roles. Highlight your ability to align procurement activities with long-term organisational goals, as this will be crucial for the position.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience working with senior stakeholders. Share specific instances where you've influenced decision-making or improved supplier performance through effective communication and collaboration.
✨Highlight Your Mentoring Experience
Since mentoring junior colleagues is part of the role, think of examples where you've supported others in their professional development. This will show your leadership potential and commitment to fostering a collaborative environment.