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Category Manager x 2
£40,497 rising to £44,128
Full Time, Permanent - Professional Services
Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward-thinking institution rooted in and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”
Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.
In acknowledgment of our commitment to gender equality and progression, we proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.
The role
The Category Manager for Professional and Business Services and the Category Manager for People and Development Services are roles that lead, own and manage spend categories to develop and hone category strategies, and to drive and implement strategic sourcing decisions.
Based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Senior Category Manager, the Category Managers will be responsible for delivering significant cashable savings from the spend category of at least 10% over the next three years, whilst supporting and enabling University colleagues in delivering their savings objectives.
Please see the accompanying Campaign Document, detailed Job Description and Person Specification for full details.
About the team
The Strategic Procurement Team at Oxford Brookes is evolving and redefining the way we deliver services.
Our small procurement team is growing, and moving to a category management approach that aligns with the University’s strategic vision and objectives. We are developing a strategic, coordinated procurement approach that improves commerciality, risk management, and service quality across the University, from the c.£50 million that the University spends annually on goods, services, and works, purchased from a multitude of suppliers.
What will I be doing?
As a Category Manager, you will manage and undertake procurement and contract management activities within the spend category across the University.
1. Develop and implement short, medium and long-term procurement strategies for the spend categories to deliver cashable savings, efficiency gains, and long-term value creation in collaboration with University and FLS colleagues.
2. Undertake all procurement activities within the spend category, including establishing preferred suppliers.
3. Prepare tender documentation on e-tendering solutions and go out to the market to ensure value for money and compliance in each tender and contract.
4. Undertake procurements/tenders, conduct contract management meetings, and manage supplier relationships and performance improvement activities.
5. Undertake relevant complex or high-risk procurement activities, complying with the Procurement Act 2023.
6. Assist, guide, and facilitate University colleagues in the evaluation/moderation of tender responses where required.
7. Work with the Senior Category Manager(s) and Strategic Category Lead(s) to ensure the University meets its designated annual savings targets.
What skills do I need?
* Strong leadership and influencing skills
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
* Excellent collaborative working skills to foster positive stakeholder relationships
* Excellent analytical skills for risk assessment and data-driven decision-making
* Proactive, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities
* Procurement governance, policy, and legislative compliance knowledge and skills
* Strategic sourcing and category management expertise
About the location
Based at our Headington Campus, you’ll experience the vibrant campus atmosphere and benefit from our modern office environment. The campus is one mile from the centre of Oxford and is served by regular public transport. This role will be hybrid, with attendance on campus at least 1-2 days per week, potentially increasing during 2026 and 2027 as hybrid policies evolve.
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (~5 per year).
We support hybrid working where possible and provide necessary equipment for flexible work.
We offer a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme with a 19.2% Employer contribution, along with financial education and an employee assistance helpline.
Our benefits include:
* Discounted rates for sports & gym facilities
* On-site Nursery
* Discounted travel options
* Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles)
* Training and development opportunities
* Inclusive staff networks fostering community and support
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Oxford Brookes is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who embrace our values. We are a Disability Confident Employer and guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting essential criteria.
For more details, visit: Job Specification
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