Role Overview: Category Manager - IT & Professional Services Categories
The Category Manager will be responsible for leading and managing procurement activities within the IT & Professional Services Categories, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and regulations in a Public Sector environment.
Key responsibilities include:
* Project Support – Assist senior procurement staff to ensure projects are delivered effectively and in line with organizational policies.

* Category Strategy – Develop and manage the category work plan, incorporating national and collaborative procurement priorities and applying appropriate sourcing strategies.

* Cost Savings – Identify and deliver savings initiatives aligned with organizational efficiency targets, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.

* Stakeholder Engagement – Collaborate with internal teams to ensure effective contract coverage and benefit realization.

* Market Awareness – Stay informed on technological developments within the category and support team knowledge growth.

* Process Compliance – Ensure adherence to agreed procurement processes and procedures.

* Expert Advice – Provide guidance on product selection, market testing, and related activities.

* Standardization – Drive product standardization and supplier rationalization across the organization.

* Research & Development – Conduct research on products as required.

* Project Briefing – Identify efficiency projects and present proposals to relevant governance groups.

* Logistics Coordination – Advise on product changes and supply routes, supporting logistics initiatives as required.

* Regulatory Compliance – Ensure procurement activities comply with financial instructions, legislation, and procedural requirements.

* Tender Management – Lead complex, high-value procurement exercises, including tender documentation, risk assessments, evaluations, and supplier debriefs.

* Performance Monitoring – Track and report category cost savings and contract performance.

* Policy Development – Contribute to operational policy development and category-specific strategies.

* Supplier Reviews – Conduct regular reviews of supplier performance and implement improvements.

* Risk Management – Understand and mitigate risks associated with product evaluations.

* Systems Liaison – Work with systems teams to ensure IT and contract support requirements are met.

* Catalogue Management – Maintain accurate vendor catalogues for category products.

* Collaborative Procurement – Participate in consortium activities and recommend tendering strategies to maximize benefits.

Key Skills and Attributes
*Strong relationship-building skills with stakeholders and suppliers.
*Experience operating within the IT & Professional Services Categories.
*Ability to communicate clearly and provide timely advice.
*Skilled in negotiation, problem-solving, and financial evaluation.
*Capable of managing workload independently and prioritizing effectively.
*Proficient in procurement systems and Microsoft Office applications.
*Committed to compliance with organizational policies and health & safety standards