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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape commercial strategy in a dynamic public-sector environment.
- Company: Join a diverse team focused on delivering top-notch resourcing solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior commercial roles and strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and supports all applicants.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Contract: 18 months
Location: Reading (2-3 days per week onsite)
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Headcount: 1
Category: Non-Digital
Security Clearance: DV clearance required
Candidates with active SC may start and will be sponsored through DV
Sole UK nationals preferred (dual nationals may be considered)
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Principal Category Manager to lead and shape commercial strategy within a complex, highly regulated public-sector environment. This is a senior role with responsibility for driving pre-contract activity, managing a small commercial team, and delivering robust procurement strategies across infrastructure and construction categories.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the commercial strategy team, setting direction and priorities
- Line/task management of approximately 6 team members
- Develop and deliver sourcing and category strategies
- Lead external framework commercial strategy, including engagement and delivery
- End-to-end procurement delivery, with a strong focus on pre-contract activity
- Deliver infrastructure and construction procurement strategies
- Manage and influence senior stakeholders across internal and external environments
- Ensure compliance with Procurement Act and public procurement regulations
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior commercial or category management role
- Strong background in public-sector procurement
- Demonstrable experience producing and implementing sourcing strategies
- Experience working with and leading external frameworks
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capability
- Excellent stakeholder management skills at all levels (written and verbal)
- Solid knowledge of procurement regulations and legislation
- Experience delivering infrastructure / construction strategies
Reasonable Adjustments
Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.
If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
Principal Category Manager in Reading employer: Sanderson Government and Defence
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Government and Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Category Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Principal Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in public-sector procurement. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your experience in leading commercial strategies and managing teams. Keep it concise and impactful – think of it as your personal brand statement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Category Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public-sector procurement and category management. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Principal Category Manager, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you've successfully led teams or delivered procurement strategies.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your key skills stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Government and Defence
✨Know Your Procurement Regulations
Make sure you brush up on the latest procurement regulations and legislation relevant to the public sector. 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 Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented sourcing strategies in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how your strategic thinking led to successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the commercial strategy team.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about your past experiences managing stakeholders. Prepare to share stories that highlight your excellent communication skills and how you’ve influenced decisions at various levels. This is crucial for a role that requires managing senior stakeholders.
✨Lead with Confidence
As this role involves managing a small team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share how you set direction and priorities for your team, and how you ensure everyone is aligned with the commercial strategy. Confidence in your leadership approach will resonate well with interviewers.
