About the role

We’re looking for an experienced Category Manager/Procurement Specialist to join a highly established organisation in the education sector, on a permanent basis.

Based in Newcastle.

You will be responsible for all aspects of developing and implementing a strategic Laboratory & Engineering category management plan and the underlying sourcing strategies, supplier, and contract management as well as policy and regulatory compliance

This is an excellent opportunity to ensure that the Laboratory & Engineering category management plan is fully integrated and adopted within relevant Faculties and Services.

Job Role

• Setting the strategic direction of the Laboratory & Engineering Category, leading the development and implementation of the Category Plan based on market knowledge and (Category) data analysis.

• Developing and implementing sourcing strategies for new projects and key renewals ensuring that these strategies deliver clear Value for Money benefits.

• Running tenders and leading supplier commercial and contract negotiations.

• Implement effective supplier and contract management for key suppliers, including management of KPIs and performance dashboards.

• Provide input into the development of costing and pricing for commercial bids and implementation of income/grant-funded projects, ensuring that this underpins commercial procurement decisions and funding rules where required.

Skills/Experience

• Leading tenders and supplier commercial and contract negotiations.

• Building strategic relationships with key stakeholders to achieve a position as trusted advisor on procurement and commercial matters.

• Effective supplier and contract management.

• Analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

• Strong strategic focus and commercial sensitivity and acumen.

• CIPS qualified to level 7 or extensive equivalent experience.

If you are interested in this Category Manager role, click ‘apply now’ and one of the team will be in touch to discuss the role further.