At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement activities and advise stakeholders on effective purchasing strategies.
- Company: Join a leading university committed to ethical sourcing and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on innovation and strategic goals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by supporting the university's mission through responsible procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong advisory skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About the Directorate
Procurement Services sits within the University's Finance and Procurement Directorate and operates as a centralised function dedicated to ensuring that the University achieves value for money in all its procurement activities.
About the Department
The team acts as a centre of excellence, offering advice, guidance and support to colleagues across the University on how to procure goods, services, and works effectively and responsibly. Our role is not only to manage costs but also to ensure that procurement decisions align with the University's broader strategic goals.
From August 2024, the University was no longer classified as a public authority under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015; however, it continues to uphold high standards of procurement practice, recognising its responsibilities as an exempt charity and a recipient of public funds. This means that while it is no longer legally bound by certain public procurement rules, it remains committed to transparency, fairness, and ethical sourcing.
The Procurement strategy supports the University's five strategic themes and encourages colleagues to consider sustainability, social value, and ethical considerations in their procurement decisions. The strategy also promotes collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders to reduce risk and improve supply chain resilience. Procurement at the University is about more than just buying - it's about making informed, responsible choices that support the institution's mission and values.
About the Team
There are 15 people in the Procurement Team; the Director of Procurement is the strategic lead of the department, and the Head of Procurement manages the operational aspects of the department. The Procurement Manager reports into the Head of Procurement and manages a Category Management team of six people. The Procurement team also includes a Systems Manager, who manages a team of four Administrators, and a Procurement Data Analyst.
About the Role
As a Category Manager, you will work alongside a Senior Category Manager to manage procurement activities and advise stakeholders for our Professional Services or Estates, Facilities and Campus Development (EFCD) category. You will support the Senior Category Manager to research, develop and implement the category strategy to meet business needs and the wider objectives of the University. You will directly advise stakeholders, manage tendering activities and administer contracts.
Key Skills
Procurement Category Manager employer: Manchester Metropolitan University
The University offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Procurement Category Manager role, fostering a culture of collaboration and ethical decision-making. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a commitment to sustainability, and the chance to contribute to the University's strategic goals while ensuring transparency and fairness in procurement practices. Located in a vibrant academic setting, this position not only allows for meaningful engagement with diverse stakeholders but also promotes a strong sense of community and purpose.
Contact Details:
Manchester Metropolitan University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the University or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University's procurement strategy. Show us you understand their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role of a Procurement Category Manager. We want to hear how you can contribute to the team’s success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Procurement Category Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement and how it aligns with the University's goals, especially around sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to manage procurement activities and advise stakeholders effectively.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let us know what makes you unique!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Metropolitan University
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on procurement principles and practices, especially those relevant to the university sector. Familiarise yourself with ethical sourcing, sustainability, and how procurement aligns with strategic goals. This will show that you understand the role's importance in supporting the university's mission.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with stakeholders in previous roles. Think about times when you’ve navigated complex relationships or managed expectations. This is crucial for a Category Manager, so be ready to discuss your approach to building strong partnerships.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Abilities
As a Procurement Category Manager, you'll need to analyse data to inform your strategies. Bring examples of how you've used data analysis in past roles to drive decisions or improve processes. Be prepared to discuss specific tools or methodologies you’ve used to gather insights.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with questions that show your interest in the role and the department. Ask about the current challenges the team faces or how they measure success in procurement activities. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
