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- Tasks: Manage procurement for essential operational equipment and support asset refresh projects.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on enhancing national resilience.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, and access to health services and a gym.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract until March 2028 with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public service while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualification required; experience in fire service procurement is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
In support of the National Resilience (NR) New Dimensions 2 (ND2) project, a Category Manager will deliver a range of new assets and procure a portfolio of operational equipment to complete an extensive asset refresh. The role requires a self‑starter who works with minimal supervision and demonstrates judgement, professional and technical skills and takes pride in the work. Support and encouragement for professional development is provided. Candidates must already possess a CIPS qualification and, although not essential, should have experience of procurement for fire service or blue light applications. Accreditation in transforming public procurement is desirable. The position is a fixed‑term contract until 31 March 2028. It is based at Service Headquarters, Bridle Road, Bootle, L30 4YD.
Benefits:
- Flexible, hybrid working arrangements based around a 35 hour working week.
- Flexi‑time with the ability to accrue up to 3 days flexi per month.
- 23 days holiday plus bank holidays and 2 additional statutory days added to the holiday entitlement.
- Access to a Local Government Pension scheme with contributions made by both the employee and MFRS.
- Excellent Health & Wellbeing services.
- Access to a free on‑site gym.
- Free, secure parking.
Category Manager (Goods & Services) employer: Merseyfire
Contact Detail:
Merseyfire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager (Goods & Services)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those with experience in fire service or blue light applications. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show off your knowledge about the National Resilience (NR) New Dimensions 2 (ND2) project and how your skills align with their goals. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your CIPS qualification and procurement experience make you the perfect fit for the Category Manager role. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager (Goods & Services)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your CIPS qualification and any relevant experience in procurement, especially if it relates to fire service or blue light applications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Category Manager position. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Judgement and Skills: In your application, don’t forget to demonstrate your judgement and professional skills. We’re looking for self-starters who take pride in their work, so share instances where you’ve made decisions independently and the positive outcomes that followed.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merseyfire
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially related to fire service or blue light applications. Be ready to discuss your CIPS qualification and any relevant experience you have. This will show that you’re not just a self-starter but also someone who understands the specific needs of the role.
✨Showcase Your Judgement Skills
Prepare examples from your past work where you had to make decisions with minimal supervision. Think about situations where your judgement led to successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to take pride in your work and handle responsibilities effectively.
✨Highlight Professional Development
Since the role offers support for professional development, be ready to discuss your career goals and how you plan to grow in this position. Mention any courses or certifications you’re interested in pursuing, especially those related to transforming public procurement.
✨Get Familiar with the Company Culture
Research the company’s values and culture, particularly around flexibility and wellbeing. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this environment. Showing that you align with their ethos will help you stand out as a candidate who fits well within their team.