At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement processes and build strong supplier relationships.
- Company: Established client in Further Education with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Great opportunity for professional development and growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the education sector.
- Qualifications: GCSEs including Maths and English; procurement experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 36500 € per year.
SF Partners are supporting an established client within Further Education that are looking to recruit an Assistant Category Manager on a permanent basis. This role sits within a lovely team with opportunities for progression and development.
Hours: full time Monday to Friday
Salary: 31,000- 36,500
What you’ll do:
- Run RFQs/tenders from plan to award (supplier comms, evaluation, award records).
- Source via collaborative frameworks and manage below threshold activity to procedure.
- Support above threshold procurement (PA23/PCR2015) including key docs and notices.
- Support contract management, KPI capture and benefits reporting (savings/social value).
- Advise stakeholders and build strong supplier relationships.
What we’re looking for:
- Essential GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths and English.
- CIPS Foundation (or equivalent) or commitment to work towards.
- Procurement experience running RFQs/tenders and keeping accurate records.
- Knowledge of public sector procurement and collaborative frameworks.
- Experience in contract management and/or supplier negotiation, with evidence of delivering savings/benefits.
- Strong IT skills (e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office) plus clear communication and organisation.
Assistant Category Manager employer: SF Partners
At SF Partners, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth. As an Assistant Category Manager, you will benefit from a structured development path within the Further Education sector, alongside competitive salary packages and a commitment to work-life balance in a vibrant team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the procurement field, especially those who work in public sector roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your RFQ and tender knowledge. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how you’ve successfully managed supplier relationships. We want to see your passion for procurement!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your IT skills! Make sure you’re comfortable with e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office. You might even want to create a quick presentation to demonstrate your capabilities during interviews.
✨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 Assistant Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Category Manager role. Highlight your procurement experience, especially with RFQs and tenders, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like CIPS Foundation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about procurement and how your skills align with what we’re looking for. Be sure to mention your experience in contract management and supplier negotiation.
Showcase Your IT Skills:Since strong IT skills are essential, make sure to highlight your proficiency with e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office. If you have specific examples of how you've used these tools effectively, share them!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Partners
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of public sector procurement and collaborative frameworks. Be ready to discuss your experience with RFQs and tenders, as well as any specific examples where you've successfully managed these processes.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves advising stakeholders and building supplier relationships, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, especially in negotiation scenarios.
✨Highlight Your IT Proficiency
Familiarise yourself with e-tendering tools and Microsoft Office applications. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in past roles to manage procurement activities and keep accurate records.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical problems related to contract management or supplier negotiations. Think through potential scenarios and how you would approach them, focusing on delivering savings and benefits.
