Category Manager

Job Description

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Your new role

n As Category Manager, you will play a key role in leading and delivering complex and regulated procurement activities across a diverse portfolio of goods, works and services within a multi-site organisation. Operating within a highly regulated public sector environment, you will be responsible for end-to-end procurement processes, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation while achieving value for money, managing risk, and driving innovation.

Key responsibilities will include:

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• Leading procurement projects from strategy development through to tender, evaluation and contract award

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• Developing and implementing category management strategies aligned to organisational objectives

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• Managing supplier relationships and supporting the development of contract management practices across the business

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• Ensuring compliance with public sector procurement regulations and internal governance policies

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• Line managing and developing a small team of Procurement Specialists

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• Supporting organisational efficiency and cost-saving initiatives through strategic sourcing and continuous improvement

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• Advising stakeholders across operational, corporate, and infrastructure functions on procurement best practice

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• Supporting audit processes and contributing to procurement governance and reporting

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• Embedding sustainable procurement practices, including social value, environmental impact and community benefits

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• Analysing spend data to inform procurement decisions and strategy development

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• Representing the procurement function internally and externally, including engagement with suppliers and stakeholders

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This is a highly visible role that requires strong stakeholder engagement, influencing skills, and the ability to operate both strategically and operationally within a fast-paced environment.

What you'll need to succeed

n To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

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• Significant experience within a professional procurement role, ideally within the public sector

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• Strong working knowledge of procurement regulations and best practice

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• Experience of developing and delivering category management strategies

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• Proven ability to manage complex procurement projects end-to-end

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• Experience in stakeholder engagement and influencing across multiple business areas

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• Previous line management or team leadership experience

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• Strong analytical and IT skills, particularly across Microsoft Office tools

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• A proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong attention to detail

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Ideally, you will also hold (or be working towards) MCIPS qualification and have experience in a regulated or multi-site environment.

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n What you'll get in return

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• Competitive salary and benefits package

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• 35-hour working week (Monday to Friday)

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• Hybrid working model with flexibility

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• Opportunity to work within a large, complex and regulated environment

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• Exposure to high-value and strategic procurement projects

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• Leadership responsibilities with scope to develop and mentor a team

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• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities

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What you need to do now

n If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

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