At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategies for Census 2031, managing contracts and supplier relationships.
- Company: Join the Office for National Statistics, shaping the future of the UK with data.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on collaboration and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national policy and community planning through innovative data collection.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial roles, public procurement knowledge, and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Location: The ONS operates a flexible hybrid working model across the UK, with colleagues linked to one of our contractual locations working between office and remote throughout the week. The locations for this role are Newport and Titchfield (Fareham). All colleagues are required to work from their contractually allocated site for at least 40% of their working time. Frequent travel to the Titchfield office will be required as part of this role. The induction process for the role will be conducted in person. ONS is committed to flexible ways of working that support a healthy work‑life balance and will explore options for part‑time, job share or flexible arrangements in line with our hybrid working policies.
About The Job: Are you ready to be part of something that shapes the future of our nation? Do you thrive on variety, enjoy working with lots of teams, and want to make a real difference? If so, this could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
Job Summary: The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the UK's largest producer of official statistics and home to over 5,000 colleagues. We create the data that drives decisions, from measuring economic growth and tracking population changes to informing policy on everything from housing to healthcare. Our statistics directly influence how billions of pounds are allocated, how services are planned, and how communities are supported across the country.
Your Work: Census 2031 represents our most ambitious data collection project yet – a once‑in‑a‑decade opportunity to capture a complete picture of everyone living in England and Wales. Building on the digital success of 2021, we’re pioneering new ways to reach every household and community, ensuring no one is left uncounted. This vital work will provide the foundation for policy decisions, resource allocation, and community planning for the next decade, and will shape how we understand and support our nation’s future.
Census Commercial Services Division: The Census Commercial Services Division leads all procurement, contract management, and supplier performance activities for Census 2031. Its purpose is to embed robust commercial strategy early in the programme lifecycle, ensuring effective market engagement, cost efficiency, and strong risk management.
Job Description: We currently have 3 positions available. As a Commercial Category Lead for Census, you will have responsibility for one of the following areas:
- Design and Integration
- Communications
- Field Collection
- Data & Operational Management
- Technology
You will become a specialist in the category area, applying best practice, developing methods and tools, generating ideas, and advising or leading others across the organisation. These roles offer a unique opportunity to lead a highly challenging and time‑critical commercial portfolio.
Key Responsibilities:
- Category Management: Develop and implement market‑facing Category Strategies that maximise innovation, value, and organisational benefits. Lead Delivery Model Assessments and secure agreement on recommended approaches. Plan, implement, and manage major supplier contracts for Census delivery.
- Commercial Management: Manage a portfolio of contracts, ensuring compliance with commercial policy, sourcing processes, and procurement regulations. Provide commercial protection for the organisation by ensuring adherence to legal, financial, regulatory, and government requirements with embedded risk analysis and management.
- Leadership: Lead contract negotiations, including pricing and terms, using a strong understanding of various contract forms. Develop structured negotiation strategies aligned with legislation and organisational objectives. Provide leadership development support to Commercial team members.
- Supplier Relationship Management: Build strong and effective relationships with existing and potential suppliers through early and ongoing market engagement. Ensure supplier relationships support competitive pricing and high‑quality solutions.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Management: Promote the organisation’s reputation and vision, inspiring engagement from internal and external stakeholders. Collaborate with colleagues, customers and delivery partners to achieve agreed commercial outcomes.
Person Specification:
- Extensive knowledge of public procurement regulations and their practical application.
- Proven experience in a senior commercial or procurement role.
- Experience delivering category strategies, managing major contracts, and engaging stakeholders effectively.
- Able to build trust and influence through clear communication and inclusive leadership.
- Can navigate very large complex commercial environments in a time‑limited environment.
Qualifications: MCIPS Qualification
Commercial Category Lead - Office for National Statistics - G6 in Manchester employer: Manchester Digital
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions flexibility and work-life balance through its hybrid working model. With a commitment to employee growth, ONS provides opportunities for professional development and leadership within a collaborative culture, all while playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation through impactful data collection initiatives like Census 2031. Located in Newport and Titchfield, employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere that values innovation and community engagement, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Category Lead - Office for National Statistics - G6 in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in what they do and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with their needs, especially around commercial management and stakeholder engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Category Lead - Office for National Statistics - G6 in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Commercial Category Lead role. Highlight your experience in public procurement and category management, and show us how your skills align with the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've successfully managed contracts or led teams in previous roles to demonstrate your capabilities.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. This ensures that your application is processed efficiently and allows us to keep track of all candidates easily.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public procurement regulations and the specifics of the role. Familiarise yourself with the Census 2031 project and how it impacts the community. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in managing complex contracts and leading category strategies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easier for the interviewers to see your impact.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder engagement is key for this role, think of ways you've successfully built relationships in previous positions. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire engagement and collaboration among various teams and external partners.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation's vision for Census 2031. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the role aligns with your career goals. Consider asking about the challenges they foresee in the upcoming census and how you can contribute.
