At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic procurement and contract development for exciting infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join a high-performing team at WM Trains, known for its collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Earn up to £55,000, enjoy free travel, and access great health benefits.
- Other info: Commit to a minimum 14-month role for personal career growth.
- Why this job: Shape major projects while driving value and compliance in procurement.
- Qualifications: NEC4 accredited with strong procurement and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Category Manager (NEC4) to join a high‑performing team delivering best‑in‑class strategic procurement across major programmes. You’ll lead tendering and contract development for high‑value infrastructure, uphold strong governance, and ensure compliance with the Procurement Act 2023. Working with key stakeholders, you’ll drive value and shape some of WM Trains most exciting projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify suitable suppliers and delivery partners in line with procurement policy and regulations.
- Prepare, negotiate, and amend contracts to meet business needs and commercial obligations.
- Advise stakeholders on best practice to secure quality and maximise value for goods and services.
- Act as the main interface with external legal teams on contract‑related matters.
- Hold suppliers to account, lead governance‑focused stakeholder meetings, and manage tender timelines and bidder communications.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- NEC4 accredited with extensive contract development experience and strong tender preparation, negotiation and end‑to‑end procurement skills.
- Proven track record leading strategic capital works procurement in the public sector, with essential knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and UCR 2016.
- Strong procurement expertise with the ability to design and deliver compliant strategies for major projects.
- Skilled communicator who builds trusted relationships, supports teams and influences effectively at all levels.
- Detail‑focused, collaborative and committed to delivering high‑quality outcomes across complex procurement activity.
Benefits
- Salary of up to £55,000 dependent on experience.
- A defined benefit pension from day 1 – one of the best in the UK.
- Free travel on all London Northwestern and West Midlands Railway services for you, your spouse/partner, and dependents.
- 75% off all other train operating companies for you, your spouse/partner, and dependents.
- 8 Friends and Family Day passes to gift per annum on our network.
- A 24/7 Virtual GP service for you and your household.
- Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – A confidential employee benefit that supports you with personal or work‑related issues affecting your home life, work life, health, or wellbeing.
- Our cycle to work scheme with Evans Cycles.
- A retail discount portal – offering savings, discounts and cashback at over 800 retailers and restaurants.
To ensure continuity and an effective delivery of service, successful candidates will be required to commit to a minimum 14‑month period in role after achieving competence. This also includes existing colleagues who move by internal promotions and transfers. This time allows our future colleagues to support personal career development by allowing time to build strong knowledge and expertise.
Category Manager in Birmingham employer: WM Trains Limited
As a Category Manager at WM Trains, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional strategic procurement for high-value infrastructure projects. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme, free travel for you and your family, and access to a 24/7 Virtual GP service. With a collaborative work culture that values strong relationships and high-quality outcomes, WM Trains offers a rewarding environment where your expertise can truly make an impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. 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 interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their procurement strategies and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate contracts effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Don’t wait too long; the sooner you apply, the better!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with NEC4 contracts and strategic procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your duties; share specific examples of successful projects you've led or contributed to. We love seeing quantifiable results that demonstrate your ability to drive value and manage complex procurement activities.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Early!:Due to the volume of applications we receive, it’s best to submit your application as soon as you can. Don’t wait until the closing date – get your application in through our website to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at WM Trains Limited
✨Know Your Procurement Policies
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 and UCR 2016 before your interview. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you’ve successfully amended contracts or secured value for goods and services. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your strategic thinking.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Think of instances where you’ve built trust and influenced decisions. This will be key in showing that you can act as the main interface with external legal teams and manage tender communications.
✨Be Detail-Oriented
Since this role requires a focus on governance and compliance, prepare to discuss how you ensure high-quality outcomes in complex procurement activities. Bring up specific projects where your attention to detail made a significant difference.
