Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service | Category Manager (Goods and Services)

About The Role Permanent contract Hours: 35 hours per week Location: Service Headquarters, Bridle Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 4YD An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented Category Mangerto join Merseyside Fire & Rescue Services (MFRS) Procurement team. As well as being a busy team operating within a metropolitan fire and rescue service, MFRS has a leading regional role for Northwest Fire and Rescue Services. The Service collaborates nationally and is also the lead authority for the Long-Term Capability Management contract that facilitates National Resilience – the UK Governments Fire and Rescue response to major incidents. Being responsible for the procurement of a portfolio of goods and services including personal protective equipment, operational equipment and training services, you will join the team during an extensive asset refresh programme. Reporting to and supported by the Head of Procurement, the role includes all procurement aspects to ensure successful delivery against challenging timeframes. This high-profile role also requires relationship management with MFRSs Senior Leadership Team and other stakeholders including those within Home Office. The post has many opportunities for autonomy and responsibility, so as to ensure service continuity and new assets integration. You will be a self-starter who requires minimal supervision and oversight from senior colleagues. You will be keen to continue to hone your judgement and professional/technical skills, taking pride in your work whilst supporting and developing others. You will be encouraged and supported in your professional development. You will need to fulfil this role in a way that is reflective of our values: courage, integrity, compassion, and display a high degree of flexibility, accountability and initiative. You will already possess a CIPS qualification whilst being accredited in transforming public procurement is also desirable. Similarly, having previous experience of procurement for fire service or blue light applications is desirable, this is not a prerequisite. The full list of Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge and Skills have been detailed in the accompanying Person Specification and more specific information about the role can be found in the Job Profile. We offer a competitive package with some great benefits available for employees: Flexible, hybrid working arrangements based around a 35 hour working week (full time roles). Flexi time with the ability to accrue up to 3 days flexi per month. 23 days holiday (rising to 28 after 5 years service), plus Bank holidays and 2 additional Extra Statutory days added to the holiday entitlement Access to a free gym Free, secure parking and access to a staff canteen Access to a Local Government Pension scheme with contributions made by both the employee and by MFRS Excellent Health & Wellbeing services Closing date:Midnight, Sunday 5 January 2025 Interviews:Wednesday 15 January 2025 About Us Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is at the forefront of public safety and emergency response, serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside with dedication and professionalism. Our mission is to protect, prevent, and respondensuring the safety and well-being of the public, both in times of crisis and through proactive community engagement. With a proud history and a strong sense of purpose, we operate across a diverse region that includes bustling urban centers, industrial hubs, and serene rural areas. Our highly skilled and committed teams work tirelessly to provide fire and rescue services, enforce fire safety regulations, and deliver critical prevention and education programs. JBRP1_UKTJ