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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Category Specialist, managing procurement strategies and contracts.
- Company: Be part of University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, a leading healthcare provider focused on excellent patient care.
- Benefits: Enjoy career progression opportunities, a supportive team, and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while developing your procurement skills in a friendly environment.
- Qualifications: Ideal for those with a passion for procurement; experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Travel between sites may be required; reach out to Mandy for more info!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for Category Specialist to join our Category Management Teams working across the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN), which encompasses Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and Northampton General NHS Trust. You will be an integral part of one of our Digital category area, delivering a first class procurement service across UHN. This is a great opportunity for a procurement professional who wants to further develop their career, to join the Procurement team at UHN and really make a difference. Base can be discussed, with the requirement to travel between sites when required. You will be joining a large, friendly and supportive team which offers great opportunities for career progression. If you would like to progress your career in procurement, please review the job description and person specification in the advert, and if you feel you match those requirements we\’d love to hear from you.
To provide a comprehensive, proactive, efficient and responsive procurement advisory and planning service across the designated specialist category area.
Responsibilities
- Assisting in the development and managing a category management strategy that provides commercial benefit and reduces risk consistent with alignment to the Group Strategies, abiding by Trust specific SFI’s, SO’s, UK legislation.
- Assisting in the development of KPI’s that evidence value for money through generating non-pay savings in accordance with cost efficiency targets whilst awarding robust compliant contracts.
- Day to day management responsibility for the category assistants working within this specialist area.
- This post holds responsibility for ensuring rigorous control in the approach to procuring goods and Services. Managing and undertaking complex and high value procurements and associated contract negotiations on behalf of the Group and working collaboratively with Procurement colleagues across the Northamptonshire ICB as appropriate.
Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest employers in the area and we are on an exciting journey. Our mission is to provide safe, compassionate, and clinically excellent patient care, by being an outstanding employer for our people. We have entered into a Group Model with neighbouring Northampton General Hospital and have become University Hospitals of Northamptonshire.
Our Excellence Values
- Compassion
- Respect
- Integrity
- Courageous
- Accountable
For further details / informal visits contact:
- Name: Mandy Sterling
- Job title: Category Manager
- Email address: m.sterling@nhs.net
- Telephone number: 07966 267985
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Category Specialist employer: Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Contact Detail:
Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement processes and regulations that apply to the NHS. Understanding the legal framework and guidelines will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current employees or professionals in the procurement field, especially those who work within the NHS. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with category management strategies and how you've successfully implemented them in previous roles. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to deliver value for money and manage complex procurements.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire and their recent projects or initiatives. Showing that you are informed about their goals and challenges will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Category Specialist position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and requirements, particularly around procurement strategies and contract negotiations.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and category management. Emphasise any achievements related to cost savings or successful contract negotiations that align with the role's expectations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for procurement and your understanding of the NHS values. Mention specific examples of how your skills and experiences make you a great fit for the team at UHN.
Highlight Teamwork and Leadership Skills: Since the role involves managing category assistants and working collaboratively, be sure to include examples of your teamwork and leadership abilities in both your CV and cover letter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Category Specialist. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements, especially in procurement and category management.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Knowledge
Demonstrate your understanding of procurement processes, contract negotiations, and KPI development. Be ready to provide examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed complex procurements or contributed to cost-saving initiatives.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working within a large team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked with colleagues across different departments or organisations to achieve common goals.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's values: Compassion, Respect, Integrity, Courageous, and Accountable. Prepare to discuss how you embody these values in your professional life and how they resonate with your personal work ethic.
