Procurement Category Manager

Shape procurement. Drive value. Make a difference.Salary: £49,050 - £52,187 per annum Location: Hybrid working across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire Contract: Permanent, Full Time Are you an experienced Procurement, Category or Contract Management professional looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact? We're seeking a Procurement Category Manager to join a large specialist education organisation supporting children, young people and adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across London and the South. This is an opportunity to take ownership of a diverse procurement portfolio, influence strategic decision-making and deliver tangible value across a multi-site organisation comprising 14 specialist schools and academies and 7 college centres. The RoleWorking as part of an established Procurement Team, you'll lead end-to-end procurement and contract management activities across a range of categories including: • Estates & Facilities • ICT • Professional Services • Operational and Corporate Services You'll manage formal tender exercises and further competitions under framework agreements, ensuring compliance with public procurement legislation while delivering value for money, quality and innovation. The role also offers significant exposure to supplier and contract management, including performance monitoring, supplier development, cost-saving initiatives and continuous improvement programmes. Key Responsibilities • Lead procurement projects and tender exercises from strategy through to contract award • Deliver compliant procurement solutions across multiple spend categories • Develop category knowledge and identify savings and efficiency opportunities • Manage supplier relationships and contract performance • Implement supplier action plans and continuous improvement initiatives • Ensure compliance with procurement legislation, governance requirements and organisational policies • Build strong relationships with stakeholders across multiple sites • Support the delivery of strategic procurement objectives About YouApplications are welcomed from professionals currently working as: • Procurement Manager • Category Manager • Contract Manager • Senior Procurement Officer • Procurement Business Partner • Commercial Manager • Strategic Sourcing Specialist You'll ideally have: • Experience leading tenders and procurement exercises • Knowledge of public sector procurement legislation and best practice • Strong supplier and contract management experience • Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills • A commercial mindset with a focus on delivering value • The ability to manage multiple projects and priorities Experience within education is beneficial but not essential. Hybrid Working & TravelThis role offers a hybrid working arrangement, with approximately 50% home-based and 50% site-based working. Regular travel across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire is required, therefore access to your own transport is essential. As the role involves visiting education settings, an Enhanced DBS check will be required. Salary & Benefits£49,050 - £52,187 per annum Benefits include: • Teachers' Pension Scheme with life cover and family protection • Generous annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure • Flexible and hybrid working arrangements • Comprehensive learning and development opportunities • Enhanced parental leave schemes • Cycle to Work Scheme • Season Ticket Loans • Employee Referral Scheme • Discounted Gym Membership and Digital Fitness Access • Home Electronics Scheme • Employee Car Lease Scheme • Employee Assistance Programme • Occupational Health Support and Mental Health First Aiders Apply NowIf you're looking for a varied and rewarding procurement role where your expertise will directly support the delivery of vital education services, we'd love to hear from you.