At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships on campus.
- Company: Join a leading university with a vibrant community and diverse opportunities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 42 days of holiday, health perks, and personal development courses.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth potential in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while enjoying flexible working arrangements.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
This role will be based on the university campus, with scope for it to be undertaken in a hybrid manner.
We are also open to discussing flexible working arrangements., As a Category Officer, you will provide support to Category and Line Managers across a range of expenditure categories and in achieving value for money for goods and services procured by Faculties and Services.
You will assist in managing relationships with senior managers, internal and external stakeholders and key suppliers.
You will also assist in the management of contracts for common goods and services and work with contract owners to manage supplier performance.
The primary focus of Category Management is to lead the development and implementation of procurement plans and strategies for key areas of non-pay expenditure maximising value for money through sustainable, efficient and effective practices including the management of risks and compliance with University, UK, E.
Public Procurement Regulations as applicable.
This will be achieved by establishing and working with key specifiers, budget holders and consumers from across the University.
You will assist Category and Line Managers in delivering agreed goals and objectives against category plans including meeting cost reduction targets.
You will undertake market, supplier and spend analysis as well as benchmarking of current costs and projections, and disseminating this information to relevant parties including both internal and external stakeholders.
You will work 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, flexibility may be required subject to business demands.
The successful candidate will be required to work flexibly, being on site at least two days a week, but they may be a requirement for more days if there is a business need.
This role will be working within the Soft FM Category team which covers contracts for cleaning, catering, security, laundry, sports equipment, workwear etc.
Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role may only be suitable for first‑time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they are eligible for salary concessions.
For more information please visit: www. gov. uk/skilled-worker-visa
Do you have experience and expertise in procurement? Can you manage relationships with senior managers, stakeholders and key suppliers?
The Facilities Directorate is the largest provider of services to University staff and students on campus, employing approximately 1,200 staff with an annual spend of circa £80M (excluding Capital expenditure).
The Directorate (which came into effect from 1 August 2010) brought together Estate Services, Residential and Commercial Services (RCS) and Sport & Physical Activity (SPA).
- 26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) - That's 42 days a year!
- Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance
- Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state‑of‑the‑art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
- Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.
- Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
And much more!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Category Officer - Soft FM in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration between academia and industry. With opportunities for hybrid working, generous holiday allowances, and a robust pension scheme, employees are supported in their professional growth while contributing to meaningful research and innovation initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Officer - Soft FM in Leeds
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like University of Leeds.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Officer - Soft FM in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to University of Leeds:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to University of Leeds. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like University of Leeds.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at University of Leeds!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at University of Leeds. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into University of Leeds's culture.