At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for essential goods and services in a dynamic fire and rescue service.
- Company: Join Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, a key player in regional emergency response.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, pension scheme, and free gym access.
- Other info: Autonomy and responsibility with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualification at Diploma level or higher required.
The predicted salary is between 44253 - 47665 £ per year.
About The Role
Salary: Grade 12 (£44,253 - £47,665 per annum)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Service Headquarters, Bridle Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 4YD
This is an exciting opportunity for a talented Category Manager to join Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s (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 North West 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 (NR) - the UK Government’s Fire and Rescue response to major incidents.
Being responsible for the procurement of a portfolio of goods, services and works including personal protective equipment, operational equipment, works projects and training services, you will join the team during an extensive asset refresh programme. Reporting to and supported by the Head of Procurement or the Procurement Lead NR, the role includes all procurement aspects to ensure successful delivery against challenging timeframes. This position has many opportunities for autonomy and responsibility, to ensure service continuity and new assets’ integration. You will be encouraged and supported in your professional development.
If you are interested in this role, it is essential that:
- You will already possess a CIPS qualification at Diploma level or higher.
- 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 a self-starter who requires minimal supervision and oversight from senior colleagues.
- 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.
The full list of qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required for this role and more information about the role can be found in the job profile / person specification.
What can we offer you?
- Full flexible working arrangements with a 35 hour working week.
- 23 days’ holiday, (rising to 28 days after 5 years’ service) plus Bank holidays and additional extra statutory days added to the holiday entitlement.
- Contributory pension by both the employee and by MFRS to a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Access to free on-site gym.
- Free, secure parking.
- On-site canteen.
- Excellent health & wellbeing services and Employee Assistance Programme.
Closing date: midnight, Sunday 22nd November 2026
Interviews: to be held during week commencing 30th November 2026
Category Manager – Goods & Services in Sefton employer: Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a respected organisation dedicated to public safety and community well-being. With a strong emphasis on innovation, inclusivity, and professional development, employees are empowered to thrive in a supportive environment that values courage, compassion, and integrity. Located in the vibrant region of Merseyside, this role not only influences local safety but also contributes to national resilience efforts, making it a meaningful and rewarding career choice.
Contact Details:
Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager – Goods & Services in Sefton
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager – Goods & Services in Sefton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service's culture.
