Estates/FM Category Manager

Location: Essex
Contract Type: Interim 3-6 months
Department: Procurement
Time: 2 days a week on-site
Salary: Negotiable

Burman are seeking a proactive and highly skilled Category Manager to join our client's dynamic Procurement team. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to work collaboratively with faculties and professional services across campuses, with a particular focus on Estates and Facilities Management.

As part of our professional procurement service, you will provide expert guidance, lead tender processes, monitor supplier performance, and ensure legal and policy compliance. You will play a critical role in shaping procurement strategies, building stakeholder relationships, and driving value through effective contract and supplier management.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational procurement advice across departments.

• Develop procurement plans and specifications for tenders and frameworks.

• Facilitate and lead cross-functional reviews to enhance procurement practices.

• Evaluate supplier responses and arrange presentations in coordination with leadership.

• Draft, review, and manage contract terms and ensure timely sign-off.

• Monitor contract performance through regular reviews and KPI assessments.

• Analyse procurement data using systems like Business World and Qlik.

• Support statutory reporting and ensure compliance with Public Sector Procurement legislation.

• Act as a primary point of contact for procurement systems, procedures, and queries.

• Represent the Procurement team in meetings and provide cover for senior leadership when needed.

• Support knowledge transfer and training for colleagues on procurement practices.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in procurement, within the education sector.

• Strong understanding of procurement legislation and compliance requirements.

• Certificate in TPP 2023.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret and act on complex data.

• Confident in using e-tendering and financial systems (In-Tend and Business World preferred).

• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and contribute to continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

At this university, we are committed to excellence, equity, and innovation in everything we do. You'll be joining a team that values integrity, collaboration, and professional development. We offer a supportive working environment, access to excellent facilities, and a genuine opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our campus operations.