At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement activities and help deliver value for money across the Council.
- Company: Stoke-on-Trent City Council, dedicated to improving local services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a diverse team making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a willingness to learn about procurement.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Directorate: Resources Section: Procurement & Commercial; Location: Civic Centre Grade: Level 9 Hours: 37 hours per week. This advert is open to internal and external applicants.
About us: We are a city of strengths, with a proud heritage and bright future. Working for Stoke-on-Trent City Council is more than just a job, it's about making, protecting and improving the services for the local population, reducing inequalities and improving independence for the people who live and work in the city. We are always looking for people of the highest calibre with skills, knowledge and experience to help us deliver our compelling vision. Stoke-on-Trent City Council's diverse and talented workforce is its greatest asset and most valuable resource. The skills, knowledge and experience of our c.4,600 employees are essential to delivering our ambitions and vision for our organisation and Stoke-on-Trent.
The Role: We are inviting internal applications for an Assistant Category Manager opportunity within Procurement & Commercial Services. The role will support the delivery of effective category management, sourcing and procurement activity across the Council, working closely with Category Managers and service areas to help deliver value for money, commercial improvement and positive outcomes. This is an excellent development opportunity for colleagues looking to broaden their procurement experience, take on greater responsibility and build their commercial and category management capability. Applications are welcomed from colleagues with relevant procurement, commercial or transferable experience who are keen to develop within the profession.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support sourcing and procurement activity
- Assist with quotations and tender exercises
- Undertake spend and market analysis
- Support contract and supplier management
- Maintain accurate procurement records and systems
- Work with services to identify commercial improvements
About You:
- Have excellent organisational and communication skills
- Able to analyse detailed information and work accurately
- Confident working with a broad spectrum of colleagues and suppliers
- Able to manage competing priorities
- Commercially aware with a willingness to learn
- Procurement experience or relevant transferable skills
What we offer:
- A competitive salary based on your skills, experience and talent
- Hybrid and flexible working options
- An excellent local authority benefits pension scheme
- Professional development through learning opportunities, regular training sessions and apprenticeship and management schemes
Pre-Employment Checks: Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of required pre-employment checks. These may include: Right to Work in the UK, Proof of address, Satisfactory references, Occupational Health Clearance, Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations, DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable for the role).
The Council will not accept any speculative CVs from employment agencies. No agency terms and conditions accompanying any such CVs will be accepted by the Council. Any unsolicited information sent by an employment agency will be treated as the property of the Council. Please note that if an employee who is currently at risk of redundancy within the organisation applies for this vacancy their application will receive priority. If this happens you will be advised accordingly.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: At Stoke-on-Trent City Council, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our community, and we want our workforce to reflect that. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We understand that some people, especially those from underrepresented or marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply if they don't meet all the listed requirements. If this role interests you and you think you could be a good fit, we encourage you to apply. We are proud of what makes each of us unique and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels included, can be themselves, and can succeed together.
Assistant Category Manager in Stoke-on-Trent employer: WMJobs
Worcestershire County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment for Social Workers in the picturesque Malvern Hills area. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee well-being, you will thrive in a culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are recognised and where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Category Manager in Stoke-on-Trent
✨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 WMJobs.
✨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 Assistant Category Manager in Stoke-on-Trent
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 WMJobs:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to WMJobs. 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 WMJobs.
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨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 WMJobs!
✨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 WMJobs. 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 WMJobs's culture.
