At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative procurement projects and deliver value-driven solutions for a growing city.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking local authority committed to transformation and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid opportunities, and professional development.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for career growth and a commitment to wellbeing.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping procurement excellence and making a real difference.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of Category Management and public procurement legislation required.
Our client, a local authority, is preparing for an exciting period of transformation. We are looking for a proactive, skilled and collaborative Category Manager to join our clients Procurement team and help shape a best-in-class procurement function for the future. If you thrive in a dynamic environment, enjoy building strong relationships, and want to deliver real value for a growing city, this role is for you. Our client offers a great working environment, including flexible working hours and hybrid opportunities. You will be expected to attend the office roughly 2 days a week, although there are flexible weeks where attendance may be less.
About the Role
As a Category Manager, you will play a key role in delivering compliant, efficient and value-driven procurement across a range of allocated categories. You will lead and support end-to-end procurement activity, ensuring alignment with the Contract Rules, the Procurement Act 2023, and the Health Care Services Regulations 2023.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver compliant procurements in line with policy, the Procurement Act 2023 and relevant legislation.
- Provide full end-to-end procurement support for the reintegration of contracts.
- Manage procurement activity for contracts up to £500,000.
- Act as a subject matter expert for your allocated categories.
- Lead or support cross-functional project teams.
- Support the Senior Category Manager in developing and implementing category strategies that deliver financial, service and supply-chain performance improvements.
- Undertake detailed business requirements analysis and ensure category strategies align with council priorities.
- Provide expert procurement advice, innovative sourcing solutions and stakeholder training.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal clients and external providers.
- Demonstrate strong IT and presentation skills, including working knowledge of Power BI.
- Support administrative tasks where required.
What We’re Looking For
Essential Knowledge & Experience
- Strong understanding of Category Management principles.
- Detailed knowledge of the end-to-end procurement process.
- Knowledge of public procurement legislation, including the Procurement Act 2023.
- Ability to analyse category data and provide insight.
- Experience managing multiple priorities and delivering to deadlines.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence stakeholders.
- A collaborative, team-focused approach with a commitment to delivering value for money.
Why Join?
Peterborough is a city undergoing significant change and investment. Joining the Procurement team means:
- Being part of a supportive, forward-thinking service.
- Playing a key role in major organisational transformation.
- Opportunities for professional development and progression.
- A chance to shape procurement excellence across the council.
- Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing.
Our Clients Commitment
- Equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
- Providing a safe and healthy working environment.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.
If you’re motivated by delivering value, improving services and supporting a city through meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.
Category Manager in Peterborough employer: Opus Perm
Our client, a local authority in Peterborough, is an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, ideal for those looking to make a meaningful impact. With flexible working arrangements, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to staff wellbeing, you will be empowered to thrive in your role as a Category Manager while contributing to the city's exciting transformation. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to delivering value and excellence in procurement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Peterborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work in procurement. Attend local events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in procurement and the specific challenges faced by local authorities. This will show that you're not just interested in the job, but also in making a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to communicate effectively with stakeholders. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or family to build your confidence.
✨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 are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Peterborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in category management and procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:Since this role is all about teamwork, emphasise your ability to work well with others. Share examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles, as we love a candidate who can connect with both internal teams and external partners.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge:Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2023 and other relevant legislation. We’re looking for someone who understands the ins and outs of public procurement, so make sure to mention any specific experiences or insights you have in this area.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus Perm
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and any relevant public procurement legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them effectively in your role.
✨Showcase Your Category Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed categories in the past. Highlight specific projects where you delivered value and efficiency, and be ready to discuss how you approached challenges and collaborated with stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Abilities
Be prepared to talk about how you analyse category data to provide insights. Bring examples of how your analysis has led to improved procurement strategies or cost savings, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive performance improvements.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since relationship-building is key in this role, practice engaging with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current procurement challenges and express genuine interest in how you can contribute to their transformation journey.
