Category Lead

Overview

In this senior role, you lead the PPE category within the national pandemic preparedness programme, shaping the stockpile strategy and enabling rapid UK response to health emergencies. You will work across DHSC, NHS Supply Chain, and stakeholders to ensure readiness, resilience, and value for money for a high-value asset. Your work accelerates supply chain transformation toward dynamic, sustainable operations. You will partner with senior leaders to drive strategic decisions and innovative solutions that protect public health.

Pay / Benefits

• flexible hybrid working
• annual bonus scheme
• colleague recognition awards
• 27 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (option to purchase additional leave)
• paid wellbeing leave
• employer pension scheme

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the DHSC PPE category strategy aligned with national preparedness and commercial goals
• Ensure stockpile readiness while balancing cost, risk, and operational constraints
• Drive supply chain transformation including supplier-managed inventory, stock rotation, and reusable PPE solutions
• Manage a high-value category delivering cost savings, cost avoidance, and value for money
• Provide expert commercial advice to senior stakeholders including ministerial decision support
• Build and maintain relationships across DHSC, NHS Supply Chain, NHS providers, and suppliers
• Shape supplier markets to improve resilience, innovation, and sustainability
• Identify, assess, and manage risks related to supply disruption, stock expiry, and financial exposure
• Ensure activities comply with procurement regulations and governance
• Lead delivery of programmes within agreed timelines in a fast-paced environment

Key requirements

• Significant experience in commercial, procurement, or category leadership roles
• Strong understanding of the NHS and wider healthcare system
• Proven track record delivering outcomes in complex, high-value environments
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills with senior leaders
• Ability to operate in fast-paced, ambiguous environments

• Stakeholder management
• Influencing and communication
• Strategic thinking
• Procurement and category management
• Supply chain strategy
• Inventory management

…