At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and deliver impactful solutions for a thriving housing association.
- Company: Join Platform Housing Group, the largest social housing association in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 28 days leave, health cash plan, and generous family policies.
- Other info: Flexible home-based role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping the future of procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Have you got Category Management expertise and would love to use your skills to really make a difference and help change people's lives? We're looking for a commercially minded Category Manager to join our fabulous Procurement team here at Platform Housing Group, the largest social housing association in the Midlands. This position is initially on a fixed term contract basis with a view to becoming permanent after successful completion of probation.
Working with us is more than just a job; you will be joining an amazing organisation that values you and your contribution. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of shaping and delivering commercially driven, compliant procurement solutions across a defined category portfolio. You’ll lead the creation and execution of category strategies that support Platform Housing Group’s strategic ambitions, driving value for money, strengthening governance, and enhancing supply chain performance.
You will be responsible for planning and delivering end-to-end sourcing activities in line with the Procurement Act 2024 and internal financial standing orders. This includes overseeing complex tendering processes, supporting contract implementation, and working closely with business leads to ensure contracts are actively managed and achieving the expected outcomes.
What we’re looking for from you:
- Proven experience delivering end-to-end procurement in a regulated environment, with strong knowledge of the Procurement Act 2024 and public procurement regulations.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills able to engage with both operational and strategic leads.
- Experience within procurement, ideally within Housing and/or Public Sector.
- Strong background in developing and executing category strategies, including pre-market engagement, tendering, contract award and post-award management.
- Competent user of procurement and contract systems, with the ability to extract, analyse and present procurement data.
- Passion, enthusiasm, an inquisitive problem solver; able to display resilience and tenacity to drive for results.
Whilst this role offers the flexibility of being home-based, occasional travel to Group offices and other locations, including Birmingham Business Park Solihull and Central Park, Worcester, is required.
Some Of The Great Benefits We Can Offer You:
- Up to 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with the opportunity to buy and sell leave.
- Family friendly policies including generous Paternity, Maternity, Shared Parental and Adoption leave plus 3 days paid Urgent Domestic Leave.
- Medicash membership for all employees which includes access to an employee assistance programme, discounted gym membership and exclusive discounts.
- Health Cash Plan worth up to £1700 p/a with cashback for dental, optical, physio and complementary therapies and more.
- Pension scheme with minimum employee contributions of up to 3% and Platform will contribute up to 12% (inclusive of life assurance and dependent on employee contributions).
- Learning and Development opportunities.
- Employee reward and recognition scheme with wellbeing hub and discount from a wide range of retailers.
How To Apply:
If you’re looking for a role where your expertise will be valued, your ideas welcomed, and where you can help shape the future of procurement in a supportive and forward-thinking team, then we’d love to hear from you. Click Apply Now to complete an online application and upload your Current CV. For more details about this position, please refer to the attached job description.
If you’d like further information about the role, please email Richard Brankin (Senior Category Manager) at Richard.brankin@platformhg.com.
Interviews: We are planning to hold first-stage virtual interviews for this opportunity and will contact shortlisted candidates to arrange a convenient time. We encourage early applications, as we may close the advert ahead of the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of interest.
Category Manager (FTC with potential to go permanent) in Birmingham employer: Platform Housing Group
Platform Housing Group is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its employees while making a significant impact on communities across the Midlands. With a strong focus on employee growth, generous benefits including up to 28 days annual leave, and a supportive work culture that values innovation and collaboration, this role as a Category Manager offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful procurement solutions in a dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a team that not only builds homes but also fosters strong communities and enhances lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager (FTC with potential to go permanent) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field, especially those who have experience with housing associations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those virtual interviews! Research common questions for Category Managers and practice your responses. We want you to showcase your expertise in procurement and your passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed procurement processes. Highlight your knowledge of the Procurement Act 2024 and how it applies to your past experiences.
✨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 organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager (FTC with potential to go permanent) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement, especially within regulated environments, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for procurement and how your skills can make a difference at Platform Housing Group. Be sure to mention specific examples of your past successes.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to engage with stakeholders. Use clear and concise language, and don’t shy away from demonstrating your influencing skills.
Apply Early!:We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Given the high volume of interest, early applications may have a better chance of being considered. Head over to our website and submit your application today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Platform Housing Group
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2024 and public procurement regulations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you can navigate them effectively in your role.
✨Showcase Your Category Strategy Skills
Prepare examples of how you've developed and executed category strategies in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve successfully managed stakeholders in previous roles. Be prepared to share stories that highlight your communication and influencing skills, especially in a regulated environment like housing or the public sector.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to their mission of building strong communities.
