At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop and manage category strategies in a dynamic public-sector environment.
- Company: Join the DVSA, a forward-thinking organisation focused on learning and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday leave, hybrid working, and funding for professional qualifications.
- Other info: Enjoy a flexible work environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public procurement while growing your career with support for MCIPS.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial cycles and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 44241 - 44241 £ per year.
A fantastic opportunity to join the DVSA as a Commercial Category Manager. The role offers time and funding to obtain and maintain membership to the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) and supports a dynamic, learning‑focused environment.
Responsibilities
- Lead a team to develop the Category Management approach across DVSA.
- Ensure team delivery against strategic objectives.
- Operate within a regulated public‑sector commercial environment in line with GCF Commercial Operating Standards.
- Manage one or more sub‑categories with a value of approximately £25 million.
- Develop policy, improve processes, and provide assurance to the commercial function and wider DVSA.
Candidate Profile
- Experience of the full commercial cycle, including pre‑competitive supplier engagement, supplier selection, tender evaluation, contract award, and ongoing contract management.
- Knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and public‑sector procurement lifecycle.
- Proficiency in:
- Understanding needs and sourcing options
- Procurement process and ongoing contract and supplier management
- PCR 2015 Public Procurement Regulations
- Strategy and policy development
- Using Crown Commercial Service frameworks
- Willingness to obtain or already holding MCIPS qualification.
- Strong stakeholder‑influencing skills, ability to manage conflict, make decisions under pressure, and escalations.
- Leadership experience to manage and grow a Category Management team.
Job Offer
- Competitive salary starting from £44,241 per annum.
- Additional RRA allowance: £2,000 for diploma level CIPS, £4,000 for full MCIPS membership.
- Generous holiday leave.
- Hybrid working with flexibility (60% office attendance).
- MCIPS funding and development opportunities.
- Civil Service Pension (28.97% employer contribution).
Please apply before the stated deadline.
Senior Commercial Category Manager employer: Michael Page
The DVSA is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment that prioritises professional development through funding for MCIPS membership and a commitment to continuous learning. With a focus on leadership and team growth, employees benefit from generous holiday leave, a competitive salary, and a robust Civil Service Pension scheme, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial Category Manager
✨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 Michael Page.
✨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 Senior Commercial Category Manager
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 Michael Page:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Michael Page. 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 Michael Page.
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨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 Michael Page!
✨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 Michael Page. 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 Michael Page's culture.
