Interim Procurement Category Manager – Corporate

Interim Procurement Category Manager – Corporate Based in London, hybrid working – 2 days onsite Length: 3 months with potential for extension We are working with a Local Authority who are looking to appoint an interim Procurement Category Manager who will lead and manage procurement activity across the Corporate category, delivering compliant, value-for-money procurement solutions that support the Council's strategic objectives. Key Responsibilities: • Lead procurement activity across the Corporate category, including but not limited to: • Professional Services • HR and Recruitment • ICT (where applicable) • Consultancy • Corporate Contracts • Develop and implement category strategies aligned to organisational priorities • Manage end-to-end procurement exercises from market engagement through to contract award. • Ensure all procurements are compliant with the Procurement Act 2023 and associated regulations • Provide expert procurement advice to commissioners, budget holders and senior stakeholders • Draft procurement documentation including tender documents, evaluation methodologies and contract schedules • Lead supplier engagement and market analysis to identify innovation and value opportunities • Deliver savings, cost avoidance and wider social value outcomes • Support contract mobilisation and handover to contract management teams • Maintain accurate procurement records and governance documentation • Mentor procurement colleagues and share best practice relating to PA23 implementation Key Requirements/Experience: • MCIPS qualified (or significant relevant experience) • Significant procurement experience within the public sector, preferably within Local Government • Delivering procurements using the Procurement Act 2023 (PA23) • Proven experience managing Corporate procurement categories • Ability to manage multiple procurement projects simultaneously The successful interim will be expected to: • Deliver a portfolio of compliant Corporate procurements • Ensure all procurement activity aligns with the Procurement Act 2023 • Achieve agreed savings and value-for-money targets • Improve procurement planning across assigned services • Build effective relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers • Support the continued embedding of PA23 across the organisation