Procurement Category Manager

Burman Recruitment; Essex; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job description

Job Title: Category Manager

Location: Essex

Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (1 day a week on-site)

Salary: £38,249 - £44,128

Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and proactive Category Manager to join our team and work closely with Faculties and Professional Services across multiple campuses, focusing on Estates and Facilities Management. You will play a key role in supporting the successful procurement of goods and services, advising stakeholders, ensuring legal compliance, and continuously improving procurement practices.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong procurement experience and a passion for driving efficiency and innovation in a fast-paced environment. If you're ready to contribute your expertise and make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Faculties and Professional Services to assess procurement needs and provide guidance for successful procurement.
• Develop and execute procurement strategies, ensuring customer buy-in and compliance with procedures and regulations.
• Lead complex procurement activities, including creating tenders, specifications, and frameworks.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams to improve procurement practices and identify opportunities for efficiency.
• Manage supplier performance through effective monitoring and benchmarking.
• Coordinate supplier evaluations, presentations, and related administrative tasks alongside the Head and Deputy Head of Procurement.
• Write and ensure completion of Terms and Conditions following procurement exercises.
• Conduct regular contract reviews and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for existing contracts.
• Analyse procurement data from the finance system (Business World) and Qlik model to inform decision-making.
• Ensure legal compliance with Public Sector Procurement Legislation and other relevant regulations.
• Provide expert advice on procurement matters to support informed decision-making across the organisation.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement practices by suggesting better administrative working methods.
• Independently manage workload to meet departmental objectives and enhance operational efficiency.
• Act as the main point of contact for procurement processes, systems, and procedures.
• Organise and attend meetings with internal and external customers, providing coverage in the absence of senior procurement leadership.
• Transfer knowledge to colleagues through training and development.
• Use e-tendering systems (e.g., In-Tend) and financial systems (e.g., Business World) efficiently.
• Ensure strict compliance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR requirements in all work-related practices.
• Uphold university policies on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Safeguarding, Health & Safety, and Sustainability.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Proven experience in procurement management, particularly in Estates and Facilities Management or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and best practices.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret procurement data and drive performance improvements.
• Experience in managing supplier relationships and conducting contract reviews.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders and manage complex procurement processes.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines effectively.
• Familiarity with e-tendering systems and financial management tools (e.g., In-Tend, Business World).
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Knowledge of legal requirements around procurement and data protection.

What We Offer:

• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• The opportunity to work in a hybrid model, with one day a week on-site.
• Career development opportunities and professional growth.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.

How to Apply:

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a tangible impact within a forward-thinking team, please submit your application and CV by 3rd April 2025.