Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement projects and shape the future of healthcare in the NHS.
- Company: Join NHS Shared Business Services, a key player in healthcare procurement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days leave, health cash plan, and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health projects while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and knowledge of NHS regulations required.
- Other info: Hybrid role with great career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
Can you see yourself joining an established procurement team as Category Manager, supporting several upcoming exciting health projects and helping to shape the future of the NHS? We are looking for a Category Manager to join our healthcare team. Our corporate Procurement services cover framework agreements, consultancy, and procurement function, all delivered by skilled teams through efficient technology platforms. You will lead a delegated category portfolio to implement strategic sourcing and partner management, lower costs, deliver savings targets, and strengthen relationships with key suppliers. This position is predominantly home based, but there is an expectation to attend meetings at our Salford office once or twice per month or where business needs are required. Our modern Salford office sits in an iconic waterfront location positioned on the historic Manchester Ship Canal. NHS Shared Business Services offers great career progression. We have benefits which you can flex to meet your needs and training and development opportunities.
Responsibilities:
- Providing a procurement support function for clients and handling tender activity appropriate to category through to contract award.
- Taking an active role in developing the annual work plan and implementing policy, supplying to short and long-term category strategies.
- Reviewing, negotiating, re-negotiating and drafting contracts for cost optimisation and savings targets.
- Taking the lead across a complex high value project portfolio, building knowledge and expertise.
- Developing and improving key supplier relationships and exploring new business opportunities.
- Working with clients to develop constructive relationships with operational contract managers, providing support to ensure effective delivery of outcomes.
Qualifications and experience:
- Experience of PCR 2015, EU/UK regulations and company policies, Provider Selection Regime and the New Procurement Act 2023.
- Experience of working in procurement, commissioning, bid writing or contract management team within the NHS/Healthcare Sector/Public Sector.
- Knowledge and skill in procurement process (scoping, briefing, tendering, selection, contract negotiation, including service level agreements, and management of suppliers).
- Reporting and providing evidence to the procurement team of savings and benefits delivered through the effective management of the vendor base.
- Knowledge and experience in conducting market research.
- Validated analytic skills (analysis of information, interpreting and communicating findings).
Desirable:
- Working experience gained within the health sector and understanding of health contracts.
- CIPS level 4, working towards or willingness to achieve.
Role details:
- Employment Type: Full-time Permanent
- Location: Salford (hybrid/home based with occasional office presence)
- Security Clearance Level: DBSS
- Salary: Up to £40,000 per annum
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave with the option to buy additional days, health cash plan, life assurance, pension, and flexible benefits fund.
About NHS Shared Business Services:
NHS SBS was created by the Department of Health and Social Care to deliver corporate services to the NHS. A unique joint venture with Sopra Steria, we make life easier for NHS employees, patients, and suppliers, and deliver value for money to the taxpayer. We provide finance & accounting, digital, procurement and workforce services to more than half the NHS in England, with solutions underpinned by cutting-edge technologies and our teams’ expertise, in-depth understanding of the NHS, and commitment to service excellence. We share common values with the NHS family, are committed to being a force for good, and are dedicated and empowered to act responsibly and sustainably at organisational, team and individual level.
Category Manager (Health) in Salford employer: Sopra Steria Limited
Contact Detail:
Sopra Steria Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager (Health) in Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the healthcare sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your procurement knowledge, especially around NHS regulations and contract management. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or even in front of the mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your achievements! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight specific examples of how you've saved costs or improved supplier relationships in previous roles. Numbers speak volumes!
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager (Health) in Salford
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 the NHS or healthcare sector. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our exciting health projects. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, be sure to showcase any relevant experience you have with contract management, supplier relationships, and strategic sourcing. We love seeing concrete examples of your achievements!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply 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 navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sopra Steria Limited
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PCR 2015, EU/UK regulations, and the New Procurement Act 2023. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with procurement processes but also understand the specific challenges and opportunities within the healthcare sector.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past roles in procurement or contract management, especially within the NHS or public sector. Highlight how you've successfully handled tender activities, negotiated contracts, or built supplier relationships. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to deliver results.
✨Research the Company
Take some time to learn about NHS Shared Business Services and their role in supporting the NHS. Understanding their mission, values, and recent projects will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the position. Plus, it’ll give you a chance to ask insightful questions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about how you would approach complex projects or manage supplier relationships. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly and effectively during the interview.