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Job overview

We are looking for an experienced Senior Category Manager to join our Strategic Procurement team, and lead the Estates and Capital category. This role will be based at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, Kent.

The successful candidate will lead procurement and contract management initiatives, ensuring best practices and value for money across 2gether Support Solutions (2gether) and the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust (Trust) 

This role is pivotal in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our procurement services, contributing to the overall financial health of 2gether and the Trust.  

Main duties of the job

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Develop and lead the Category Team, promoting a culture that highlights the value of procurement.
• Strategy Development: Implement and continuously improve 2gether's and the Trust’s Procurement and Category Management Strategies, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
• Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities comply with EU directives, national legislation, local regulations, and 2gether & Trust policies.
• Project Management: Oversee complex procurement projects and contracts, using specialist knowledge to maximise cost savings and risk management.
• Supplier Management: Enhance the performance of key suppliers through strategic sourcing, contracting best practices, and supply chain reviews.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a key advisor to senior management, influencing and guiding procurement decisions across 2gether and the Trust. 
• Line Management: Responsibility for a team of 4. 

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of senior contracting/procurement management experience within a specialised category.
• Educated to degree level in business studies/management or equivalent.
• Working towards or holding Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (MCIPS) qualification.
• Proven track record in negotiation, tendering, and project management.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and influencing skills.
• Expertise in supply, contracting, capital procurement processes, and electronic procurement systems.
• Demonstrable record of achievement in meeting targets and managing projects

Some of the skills you'll need: 

• Contracting, negotiation, and project management.
• Business acumen and ability to manage commercial opportunities.
• Effective leadership, team building, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and influencing attributes. 
• Competent in MS Office and procurement systems.

It would be great if you have: 

• NHS procurement experience.
• Professional qualification – MCIPS.
• Knowledge of procurement for Capital and Estates categories. 

Working for our organisation

Why work with us?

• 26 days annual leave increasing to 28 days after 3 years  + bank holidays with the opportunity also to buy or sell leave. 
• Company Pension
• Onsite childcare facilities
• Blink- Staff communications app
• Viv up- Staff discounts & wellbeing platform
• Discounted food in canteen
• Access to the blue light card

We offer discounts and savings that make a difference to you including:

• Discounted travel, accommodation, airport parking, holidays, skiing and travel extras
• Subsidised bus pass
• Health and beauty, gifts, toys, fashion and entertainment
• Training and development opportunities including BICS and functional skills training

Social values are at the core of 2gether Support Solutions. We welcome applications from all backgrounds to encourage a diverse and inclusive workforce.