At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic procurement for exciting infrastructure projects and manage supplier relationships.
- Company: Join a high-performing team at a leading public sector organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, free travel, and extensive employee support.
- Other info: Commit to a minimum 14-month role for personal growth and expertise.
- Why this job: Shape impactful projects while developing your career in a dynamic environment.
- 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.
Due to the volume of applications we receive, the advert may close earlier than the published closing date. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out. 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.
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.
Category Manager in Birmingham employer: WM Trains
Join WM Trains as a Category Manager and be part of a high-performing team dedicated to delivering strategic procurement excellence in the heart of the UK's transport sector. With a competitive salary, exceptional benefits including free travel for you and your family, and a strong commitment to employee development, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape major infrastructure projects while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises your growth and wellbeing.
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 your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their procurement policies and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate contracts effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We want to see your application and get you on board. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream job before the advert closes!
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 and strategic procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Category Manager, strong communication is key. Use your application to demonstrate how you've built relationships and influenced stakeholders in past roles. We love seeing examples of effective collaboration!
Be Detail-Oriented:Pay attention to the details in your application. Ensure there are no typos or formatting issues, as this reflects your commitment to quality. We appreciate candidates who take pride in their work!
Apply Early!:Due to the high volume of applications, it’s best to submit yours as soon as possible. We don’t want you to miss out on this opportunity, so head over to our website and get your application in today!
How to prepare for a job interview at WM Trains
✨Know Your Procurement Policies
Familiarise yourself with the Procurement Act 2023 and UCR 2016. Be ready to discuss how these regulations impact your approach to strategic procurement, as this will show your understanding of the legal framework and your ability to navigate it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you successfully amended contracts or secured value for your organisation. Highlight your end-to-end procurement experience and how you've led tendering processes, as this will demonstrate your capability in managing high-value contracts.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Think about how you've built trusted relationships in previous roles. Be prepared to share specific instances where your communication skills influenced stakeholders or improved collaboration, as this is crucial for a Category Manager role.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Bring examples that showcase your detail-oriented approach, especially in complex procurement activities. Discuss how your focus on quality outcomes has led to successful project delivery, as this aligns perfectly with the expectations for this position.
