Lead Category Manager

Overview

In this Lead Category Manager role, you drive strategic sourcing and high-value procurements to support NHS services. You will lead category initiatives across Corporate Services, Estates and Facilities, Digital, and more, engaging senior stakeholders to deliver savings and improved outcomes. You’ll shape category strategies, manage complex procurements, and mentor colleagues, contributing to safer, more efficient patient care. This is a mission-driven opportunity to influence NHS procurement at scale.

Pay / Benefits

• Band 8a salary
• Permanent contract
• Full-time working pattern
• 5% Fringe HCAS
• Salary range £59,798–£67,020

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end category management across assigned portfolios
• Develop category strategies aligned to organisational priorities
• Manage complex procurements in line with PA23, PSR and NHS best practice
• Lead tenders for national/regional Framework Agreements, including NHS England Framework Accreditation and Cabinet Office Spend Controls
• Manage live frameworks and provider performance
• Deliver measurable savings, sustainability benefits and improved service outcomes
• Build strong stakeholder relationships and provide expert procurement guidance
• Support and mentor colleagues

Key requirements

• Degree (minimum)
• CIPS level 5
• Min 5 years’ experience in procurement
• NHS or Public Sector experience
• Procurement legislation knowledge
• Ability to read and interpret data and apply the findings

• Strong communication skills
• Stakeholder relationship management
• Mentoring and coaching
• Category management
• Procurement delivery
• NHS/NHS England framework experience

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