At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies in financial services education and manage vendor relationships.
- Company: Join a non-profit organisation focused on financial education and professional development.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, career development support, and a welcoming environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the investment industry while developing your career.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in education procurement with strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Flexible work culture with opportunities for mentorship and growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Digital Recruitment Company partners with an international, non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial education and professional development for investment specialists. They are working to build an investment industry where investors’ interests come first, financial markets function at their best, and economies grow. They are driven by the belief that lasting economic growth depends on trust, competence, and transparency in financial markets, and it must be led by professionals adhering to the highest levels of ethics and investment expertise.
We are seeking an experienced Procurement Category Manager with specialist expertise in the financial services education sector. This role is responsible for developing and executing category strategies that deliver value, manage risk, and support high-quality educational outcomes. The ideal candidate will bring strong sector knowledge, proven procurement expertise, and the ability to partner effectively with senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities- Develop and implement category strategies aligned with organisational goals, particularly within financial services education and learning provision.
- Lead end-to-end procurement activities including market analysis, sourcing, tendering, negotiation, contract award, and vendor management.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and translate them into effective procurement solutions.
- Manage vendor performance, contract compliance, risk, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identify opportunities for cost optimisation, value creation, innovation, and sustainability within assigned categories.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with internal governance, policies, and relevant regulatory requirements.
- Provide commercial advice and market insight to support strategic decision-making.
- Support broader procurement transformation initiatives and mentor junior team members where appropriate.
- 4 years’ experience in the education sector, with demonstrable exposure to learning, training, or educational services procurement.
- Strong background in category management, strategic sourcing, and vendor relationship management.
- Proven negotiation skills and experience managing complex contracts.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at multiple levels.
- Strong analytical capability and commercial acumen.
- Degree or equivalent professional experience in procurement, business, or a related discipline.
- Experience specifically within financial services education, professional qualifications, or certification bodies.
- Knowledge of regulated or membership-based organisations.
- Experience working in matrix or international environments.
- Strategic thinker with a pragmatic, delivery-focused mindset.
- Collaborative and relationship-driven.
- High attention to detail with the ability to.
Whatever your long-term career ambition, you will be joining a company that provides the flexibility to develop your career. They offer a supportive and welcoming working environment, including hybrid working. They will take your career seriously and help you be the best you can be.
Procurement Category Manager employer: The Digital Recruitment Company
Contact Detail:
The Digital Recruitment Company Recruiting Team
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 financial services education sector. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their mission and values, especially around trust and transparency in financial markets. We want you to show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for their culture too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Category Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. We suggest role-playing with a friend or mentor to sharpen those skills 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 noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are passionate about making a difference in financial education.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Procurement Category Manager. Highlight your experience in financial services education and any relevant procurement expertise. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about financial education and how your skills can contribute to our mission. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a bit of personality!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've added value in previous roles, especially in procurement and vendor management. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Digital Recruitment Company
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in the financial services education sector. Be ready to discuss category strategies and how you've successfully managed vendor relationships in the past.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships with internal stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and how you've influenced decision-making at various levels within an organisation.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Be ready to talk about your analytical capabilities. Discuss specific instances where your insights led to cost optimisation or value creation, and how you’ve used data to support your procurement decisions.
✨Emphasise Compliance and Governance
Understand the importance of compliance in procurement activities. Be prepared to explain how you've ensured adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements in your previous roles.