At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to enhance Category Management and drive cost savings.
- Company: Join DVSA, a key player in public sector commercial services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, hybrid working, and MCIPS funding.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth with support for MCIPS membership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public procurement while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in the commercial cycle and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 44241 - 44241 £ per year.
The rewards:
- Salary from £44,241 per annum
- Additional RRA allowance: £2,000 for diploma level CIPS or £4,000 for full MCIPS membership
- Generous holiday leave
- Hybrid working with flexibility (60% office attendance)
- MCIPS funding and development opportunities
- Civil Service Pension (28.97% employer contribution)
The role of Senior Commercial Category Manager:
- Lead a team to continue the development of the Category Management approach across DVSA
- Responsible for team delivery against category strategies
- Operate within a regulated public sector commercial environment consistent with GCF Commercial Operating Standards for Government
- Operate across one or more sub-categories with a value of circa £25m
- Lead on delivering a Commercial Category Management approach across the full commercial lifecycle
- Drive cost savings and cost avoidance while improving the Category Management function
- Work collaboratively with stakeholders on subcategory plans and determine best routes to market
- Influence and negotiate outcomes with stakeholders and maintain collaborative supplier relationships
The ideal Senior Commercial Category Manager:
- Experience of the commercial cycle including pre-competitive supplier engagement, supplier selection, tender evaluation, contract award and ongoing contract management
- Understanding of the Procurement Act 2023 and PCR 2015 Public Procurement Regulations
- Experience of the procurement lifecycle within a public sector environment
- Knowledge of Crown Commercial Service frameworks
- Experience of a category management environment or knowledge of category management principles
- Strong stakeholder-influencing skills with the ability to manage conflict and find effective resolutions
- MCIPS qualification held or willingness to work towards it in post
A fantastic opportunity to join the DVSA as a Senior Commercial Category Manager, delivering exemplar commercial services in line with Government Commercial Function best practice. The role holder will be provided with time and funding to obtain MCIPS membership if not already held, with the membership also funded yearly while in role.
Please note: apply before 11:55pm on Tuesday 7th July 2026.
Senior Commercial Category Manager in Birmingham employer: M-Page Hiredonline
The DVSA is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With generous benefits such as a Civil Service Pension with a substantial employer contribution, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and funding for professional qualifications like MCIPS, the DVSA fosters an environment where employees can thrive and grow in their careers while making a meaningful impact in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial Category Manager in Birmingham
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like M-Page Hiredonline, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like M-Page Hiredonline and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commercial Category Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for M-Page Hiredonline and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at M-Page Hiredonline
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with M-Page Hiredonline, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for M-Page Hiredonline.