Procurement and Category Manager
Procurement and Category Manager

Procurement and Category Manager

Reading Full-Time 39700 - 43300 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
J

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead procurement processes and develop innovative solutions for diverse services.
  • Company: Join Slough Borough Council, a dynamic hub with a focus on financial resilience and transformation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, career development opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
  • Why this job: Be part of a critical transformation that makes a real difference in the community.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement; CIPS or MCIPS qualification preferred.
  • Other info: This role offers a chance to shape the future of Slough's financial landscape.

The predicted salary is between 39700 - 43300 £ per year.

Client: Slough Borough Council

Location: Slough / Hybrid

Salary: GBP45,718 - GBP50,788

Closing date: Wednesday, 30 April

Slough is a dynamic economic hub at the gateway to London and the Thames Valley, with excellent transport links including the Elizabeth line and proximity to Heathrow Airport. We are seeking exceptional finance professionals ready for a challenging, career-defining role. With a new S151 officer and a balanced budget for 2025/26, we are poised for financial resilience and a bright future. Our Finance and Procurement Teams have a robust improvement programme focused on career development. Be part of our critical transformation and thrive in a supportive, demanding environment.

We are seeking two proactive and experienced Procurement Specialists to join our team. These roles offer a varied and diverse portfolio which can include providing procurement expertise in areas such as highways, construction, children's services, adult social care, and IT.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead procurement processes across various services, ensuring compliance and best value
  • Collaborate with commissioners and stakeholders to drive service delivery and performance
  • Manage 3rd party spend effectively, focusing on cost-benefit and added value
  • Shape and implement the procurement strategy for the council
  • Ensure due diligence and compliance with the recently enacted UK Procurement Act 2023

What You Will Do:

  • Develop and deliver innovative procurement solutions
  • Monitor market trends and adapt procurement strategies accordingly
  • Provide high-quality procurement support and advice
  • Drive continuous improvement in procurement practices
  • Network with sector adjacent organisations and understand funding streams and grants

Your Skills:

  • At least 5 years experience in procurement, with a strong understanding of public procurement
  • CIPS or MCIPS qualification (or working towards it)
  • Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to make difficult decisions and drive change
  • Proactive approach with strong organisational skills

Are you ready to lead and transform Slough's financial landscape? We need resilient, adaptable professionals who can develop sustainable strategies, drive procurement excellence, and support broader economic objectives. If you thrive on complexity and see challenges as opportunities, join us in making a real difference. We offer a genuine career-defining opportunity for those who are prepared to step up, challenge the status quo, and make a real difference. If you are a finance professional who thrives on complexity, sees challenges as opportunities, and wants to be part of a transformative journey, we want to hear from you. Apply now and turn potential into performance.

Procurement and Category Manager employer: Joveo

Slough Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in a thriving economic hub with excellent transport links. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our robust improvement programme, providing ample opportunities for career development and professional qualifications such as CIPS or MCIPS. Join us in a supportive and challenging atmosphere where your contributions will directly impact the community and help shape the future of procurement in Slough.
J

Contact Detail:

Joveo Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Procurement and Category Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the UK Procurement Act 2023, as this is a key aspect of the role. Understanding its implications will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and best practices in procurement.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the public procurement sector. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights into current trends and challenges that Slough Borough Council may be facing.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven change and improved procurement processes in your previous roles. Highlighting your proactive approach and ability to manage stakeholder relationships will set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Slough Borough Council's recent projects and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their current procurement strategies and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in contributing to their goals.

We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Category Manager

Public Procurement Knowledge
CIPS or MCIPS Qualification
Stakeholder Management
Relationship-Building Skills
Organisational Skills
Decision-Making Skills
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Procurement Strategy Development
Compliance with UK Procurement Act 2023
Market Trend Analysis
Continuous Improvement in Procurement Practices
Networking Skills
Adaptability
Proactive Problem-Solving

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Procurement Category Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in procurement, particularly in public procurement. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead procurement processes and manage stakeholder relationships.

Showcase Qualifications: If you have a CIPS or MCIPS qualification, be sure to highlight this prominently in your application. If you are working towards it, mention your current level and any relevant coursework or training.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for procurement and your understanding of the challenges faced by Slough Borough Council. Use specific examples to illustrate how you can contribute to their goals.

How to prepare for a job interview at Joveo

✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of a Procurement Category Manager. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with leading procurement processes and managing third-party spend.

✨Showcase Your Qualifications

Highlight your CIPS or MCIPS qualifications, or your progress towards them. Discuss how these qualifications have equipped you with the skills necessary to navigate public procurement and compliance with the UK Procurement Act 2023.

✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. This is crucial for collaborating with commissioners and driving service delivery, so be ready to share specific instances where you made a positive impact.

✨Emphasise Your Proactive Approach

Discuss your proactive strategies for developing innovative procurement solutions and driving continuous improvement. Share examples of how you've adapted to market trends and implemented effective procurement strategies in the past.

Procurement and Category Manager
Joveo
J
  • Procurement and Category Manager

    Reading
    Full-Time
    39700 - 43300 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-05-02

  • J

    Joveo

Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>