Job Title: Category Manager – Procurement Location: Thurrock – Hybrid Hours: Office Hours Rate: £325 per day, inside ir35, umbrella contractors only Job Purpose: To manage assigned procurement categories, support the full commercial lifecycle, and lead high-value procurement projects across various directorates. The role focuses on delivering strategic procurement activities, driving cost efficiencies, and ensuring best value for the organisation. Key Responsibilities: Category Management: Lead procurement opportunities, conduct category analysis, and implement innovative solutions to reduce costs and achieve efficiencies. Procurement Expertise: Provide support across procurement processes, including training, market intelligence, contract specification drafting, and end-to-end tendering. Category Planning: Collaborate with Council Officers to develop strategies for supplier engagement across sectors. Compliance and Best Practices: Ensure contracts align with best practices, maintain audit transparency, and comply with governance policies. Value Delivery: Leverage the Council's buying power to achieve the lowest whole-life costs and best economic value. Supplier Relationship Management: Develop and maintain productive relationships with suppliers to enhance contract outcomes. Contract Management Support: Offer subject matter expertise to support contract managers and suppliers, adhering to the Council’s Contract Management Framework. Stakeholder Engagement: Address and manage stakeholder requirements with professionalism and responsiveness. Reporting and Documentation: Produce management reports and maintain records to support transparency and policy implementation. Qualifications and Skills: Proven experience in procurement and category management. Strong knowledge of procurement policies, governance, and market analysis. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Ability to manage high-value procurement projects and deliver cashable savings. Previous experience in a local government or housing association role