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Senior Category Manager x 2
£46,735 rising to £51,039
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 Senior Category Manager roles in Teaching, STEM, Research, Academic and Student Services are key strategic positions that lead transformation within their categories. These roles manage high-value contracts, lead supplier negotiations, and collaborate with University stakeholders to deliver value through innovative procurement solutions.
They also have line management responsibilities for Category Managers in either the People and Development Services category or the Professional and Business Spend category.
Based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Strategic Category Lead, the Senior Category Manager will be responsible for achieving at least 15% cashable savings over the next three years from their spend category, while supporting colleagues in meeting 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, moving towards a category management approach aligned with the University’s strategic vision. We aim to improve commerciality, risk management, and service quality across the University, which spends approximately £50 million annually on goods, services, and works from various suppliers.
What will I be doing?
* Undertake comprehensive category management, including developing and executing category strategies.
* Analyze the supplier market to assess market conditions, cost drivers, and trends to drive cost reduction and maximize value for money.
* Lead end-to-end procurement processes within designated spend categories.
* Enhance procurement policies, practices, and processes to deliver innovation and continuous improvement.
* Maintain high customer service standards to improve stakeholder experience and ensure alignment with University objectives.
What skills do I need?
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with stakeholders, management, and suppliers.
* Strategic thinking focused on achieving cost savings and continuous improvement.
* Collaborative working skills to foster positive stakeholder relationships.
* Approachability and engagement with all levels of the University community.
About the location
Based at our Headington Campus, you’ll experience a vibrant campus atmosphere and benefit from a modern office environment. The campus is one mile from Oxford city centre and accessible by public transport. This role is hybrid, requiring attendance on campus at least 1-2 days per week, potentially increasing during 2026-2027 as hybrid policies evolve.
As an employee, you will enjoy a minimum of 25 days holiday, increasing 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 arrangements.
Our benefits include a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme with a 19.2% employer contribution, financial education, an employee assistance helpline, and various other benefits such as discounted gym facilities, nursery, travel options, and training opportunities.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Oxford Brookes is committed to inclusivity, valuing diversity and providing equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who share our values. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.
For more details, see the full job specification here: Job Specification
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