Category Lead

To provide strategic commercial leadership and expert procurement support across the Council ensuring the delivery of compliant efficient and value-driven procurement solutions. The Category Manager will act as a trusted adviser to departmental stakeholders leading complex procurement projects driving value for money and social value outcomes managing commercial risks and fostering effective relationships with internal and external partners.

• Provide senior-level commercial advice and strategic procurement expertise to support the Council in achieving its corporate objectives.
  
• Act as a key strategic adviser to departments on complex procurement and contract management matters.
  
• Lead and manage high-value high-risk and complex procurement projects from inception through to contract award and implementation.
  
• Deliver procurement solutions that achieve value for money social value and service improvement objectives.
  
• Provide expert guidance challenge and support to internal stakeholders on procurement legislation policies procedures and best practice.
  
• Develop effective procurement strategies that align with organisational priorities and market conditions.
  
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant legislation public procurement regulations governance requirements and Council policies.
  
• Identify assess and manage procurement and commercial risks throughout the procurement lifecycle.
  
• Build and maintain productive relationships with suppliers contractors strategic partners and key stakeholders.
  
• Support contract mobilisation and implementation to ensure successful delivery of intended outcomes.
  
• Analyse expenditure market trends and supplier performance to identify opportunities for efficiencies and service improvements.
  
• Lead negotiations with suppliers and stakeholders to secure the best commercial outcomes for the Council.
  
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of procurement processes policies and commercial practices.
  
• Prepare and present procurement reports recommendations and business cases to senior management and governance panels.
  

• Significant experience in public sector procurement commercial management or category management.
  
• Proven track record of managing complex high-value procurement projects and tenders.
  
• Strong knowledge of public procurement legislation regulations and best practice.
  
• Experience providing strategic commercial advice to senior stakeholders and operational teams.
  
• Demonstrable experience managing procurement-related risks and delivering successful commercial outcomes.
  
• Excellent stakeholder management negotiation and influencing skills.
  
• Strong analytical financial and problem-solving abilities.
  
• Experience developing procurement strategies and delivering value for money and social value outcomes.
  
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively within a fast-paced environment.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including report writing and presentation skills.
  
• MCIPS qualification (or working towards) is desirable.
  
• Experience within a local authority or public sector environment is desirable.
  

• Location: Royal Borough Of Greenwich - Hybrid / Council Offices
  
• Working Hours: 37 hours per week
  
• Payment Frequency: Bi-Weekly Payments