At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development and management of innovative procurement solutions at Westworks.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team at Westworks, committed to excellence and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive benefits package and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic transformation programme with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement while making a real impact on users and suppliers.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
Shape the next generation of Westworks procurement solutions. This is an exciting time to join Westworks. We're looking for a Category Manager who shares our enthusiasm for creating something new, and our commitment to compliant but pragmatic solutions for the people who use our arrangements.
What you'll do
- Lead the development, procurement and ongoing management of a portfolio of Westworks Procurement solutions, including Frameworks and Dynamic Markets.
- Bring together category management, strategic procurement, commercial development and market engagement to ensure our solutions are compliant, commercially attractive and genuinely aligned to what our users need now and next.
- Play a key part in our procurement transformation programme — transitioning existing DPS arrangements to Procurement Act 2023 compliant Dynamic Markets, and developing the next generation of Westworks frameworks.
- Work closely with users, suppliers and colleagues, using market and performance intelligence to spot opportunities, shape procurement strategies, and build solutions that increase member value, supplier participation and utilisation.
- Provide expert advice across the organisation, contribute to procurement governance and continuous improvement, and help build procurement capability across the wider team.
What we're looking for
- Excellent working knowledge of PCR 2015 and the Procurement Act 2023.
- Proven experience delivering large, above-threshold public sector procurements — ideally in the built environment.
- Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
- Confident managing relationships with senior stakeholders, and able to shape and influence change.
- Comfortable running multiple complex projects independently and at pace, to tight deadlines.
- Used to briefing and working alongside lawyers and other professional advisers.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, with strong attention to detail.
- Well organised, resilient and collaborative, with solid IT skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Our values resonate with you: Respect, Trust, Unity and Resilience.
- Experience working at a framework provider.
- Experience in the built environment.
Why Westworks
We're motivated by our vision and values, all framed around delivering excellence for our customers while enjoying the work we do. We also offer a favourable benefits package to support our people. If you want to play a significant part in shaping, designing and delivering our new arrangements, we'd really like to have a conversation with you.
Procurement Category Manager in Swindon employer: Westworks Procurement
Westworks is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, making it an ideal place for a Procurement Category Manager to thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our team members to shape the future of procurement solutions while enjoying a supportive environment. Located in a dynamic sector, this role offers the unique opportunity to lead transformative projects that directly impact our users and the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager in Swindon
✨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 Westworks Procurement.
✨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 Procurement Category Manager in Swindon
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 Westworks Procurement:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Westworks Procurement. 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 Westworks Procurement.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westworks Procurement
✨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 Westworks Procurement!
✨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 Westworks Procurement. 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 Westworks Procurement's culture.
