Procurement Category Manager

Job Title: Procurement Category Manager | Local Government

Location: Thurrock - Hybrid WorkingEmployment Type: Contract - Initial 2 MonthsRate: £300 per day via Umbrella

Overview:We are hiring an experienced Procurement Category Manager to join our clients local government team. In this key role, you will manage category portfolios to streamline procurement processes, boost supplier performance, and drive cost savings. With your strategic approach and deep understanding of public sector procurement, you will make impactful decisions aligned with council policies and community needs.

• Category Strategy Development: Develop and execute category management strategies to optimize procurement efficiency and compliance within the local government sector.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Conduct market analysis, build strong supplier partnerships, and ensure top-notch performance and value in all sourcing activities.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align category strategies with organizational objectives, ensuring adherence to public sector procurement regulations.
• Cost Optimization: Identify cost-saving opportunities, negotiate favorable contract terms, and manage risk throughout the procurement lifecycle.
• Governance and Compliance: Uphold high standards of transparency, fairness, and compliance with public sector procurement laws and local government policies.
• Performance Reporting: Monitor category performance, supplier compliance, and procurement outcomes, driving continuous improvement and alignment with council objectives.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Procurement, or Supply Chain Management. A CIPS qualification is preferred.
• Experience: Proven experience in public sector procurement or category management, ideally within local government.
• Skills: Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills; ability to develop and execute category management strategies and familiarity with public procurement regulations.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with e-procurement platforms, ERP systems, and procurement tools and best practices.
• Personal Attributes: A collaborative, problem-solving mindset with a commitment to ethical and sustainable procurement practices.

As a Procurement Category Manager in our clients local government team, you’ll contribute to impactful, transparent, and community-focused procurement practices. Join us to help drive value and innovation in public procurement, delivering meaningful outcomes for the public sector.