At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support innovative procurement activities to drive value and efficiency.
- Company: Join a local authority committed to transformation and community impact.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a major organisational change and shape procurement excellence.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of Category Management and public procurement legislation.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
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 client's procurement team and help shape a best‑in‑class procurement function for the future. 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 playing a key role in major organisational transformation, opportunities for professional development and progression, and a chance to shape procurement excellence across the council. Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing.
Our Client's 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.
Category Manager in Peterborough employer: Schools Choice
As a Category Manager with our client, a local authority in Peterborough, you will be part of a dynamic team driving significant transformation and innovation in procurement. The company fosters a collaborative work culture with flexible working arrangements, prioritising employee wellbeing and professional development, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and impactful work in the public sector.
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 the procurement field, especially those who work in local authorities. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals, especially around compliance and value-driven procurement.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring examples of your past procurement successes to the table. Whether it’s managing contracts or leading cross-functional teams, let them know how you can add value.
✨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 about their job search.
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 with Category Management and procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of public procurement legislation, especially the Procurement Act 2023. We’re looking for someone who can navigate these regulations, so include examples of how you've applied this knowledge in past roles.
Highlight Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working with cross-functional teams, make sure to mention any collaborative projects you’ve been part of. We love seeing how you’ve built relationships and influenced stakeholders in your previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Schools Choice
✨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 confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Category Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed categories in the past. Highlight your ability to analyse data and provide insights that led to improved procurement outcomes. This will demonstrate your expertise and proactive approach.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration
Since this role involves working with cross-functional teams, be ready to share experiences where you’ve collaborated effectively. Talk about how you’ve built relationships with stakeholders and how that has contributed to successful procurement projects.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to procurement challenges. Think through how you would handle issues like budget constraints or stakeholder disagreements. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
