At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-value procurement projects and shape how the Council delivers services.
- Company: Sefton Council, committed to making a real difference in communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with a focus on equality, diversity, and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a transformative team and make an impact on public services.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of procurement legislation and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Sefton Council is looking for three experienced Procurement Category Managers to join our Corporate Procurement Team at an exciting time of transformation. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-quality, compliant and value-for-money procurement across a diverse range of goods, services, works and ICT projects. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you’ll lead complex procurement activity from strategy through to contract award, helping shape how the Council spends and delivers services for our communities.
About the role
- Lead and manage high-value, complex procurement projects
- Provide expert advice on the Procurement Act 2023 and Contract Procedure Rules
- Develop sourcing strategies that maximise value and minimise risk
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers and partners
- Drive innovation, challenge existing practices and improve outcomes
About you
- You’ll be a confident procurement professional with strong knowledge of public sector procurement legislation
- Excellent communication, influencing and negotiation skills
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach with the ability to work at pace
What we offer
- Competitive local government salary and pension
- Agile and flexible working options
- Generous annual leave and wellbeing support
- Career development and professional learning opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive and values-driven organisation
At Sefton, we are committed to making a real difference for our communities. If you’re passionate about procurement and want to help shape better services, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing Date - 12/06/2026
Provisional Interview Date - 24/06/2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received.
Equal opportunities
Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential.
We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.
Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview. If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.
How to apply
Please apply online via the link provided. Please note, we do not accept CVs (unless specified on the advert). Please fully complete the online application form.
Procurement Category Manager employer: Sefton Council
Sefton Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With competitive salaries, flexible working options, and a commitment to diversity, we empower our Procurement Category Managers to lead impactful projects that enhance community services. Join us in making a meaningful difference while advancing your career in a dynamic and values-driven organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Sefton Council and its procurement strategies. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for making a difference in the community through effective procurement.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Category Manager, you’ll need to influence stakeholders and suppliers. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Sefton Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out:Before you start your application, make sure you really understand what the Procurement Category Manager role involves. Dive into the job description and highlight the key responsibilities and skills required. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill!
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out the application form, don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your knowledge of public sector procurement legislation and your ability to manage complex projects. We want to see how you’ve made an impact!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your answers are easy to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website! It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the role and the application process right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sefton Council
✨Know Your Procurement Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and Contract Procedure Rules. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the regulations but also ready to apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've developed sourcing strategies in the past. Highlight your ability to maximise value while minimising risk, as this is crucial for the role. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your success.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can illustrate your experience in building strong relationships with stakeholders and suppliers. Be ready to share stories that showcase your communication and negotiation skills, as these are key to driving successful procurement projects.
✨Be Solutions-Focused
During the interview, adopt a proactive approach by discussing challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will reflect your ability to work at pace and drive innovation, which is exactly what Sefton Council is looking for.
