Professional Services Category Manager

Burman are seeking an experienced Category Manager to lead and manage Professional Services for our University client. This role is central to developing and delivering category strategies and driving strategic sourcing decisions across the organisation.

Based at our main campus and reporting to the Senior Category Manager, you will play a key role in delivering measurable cashable savings, while supporting colleagues across the institution in achieving their cost efficiency goals.

Key Responsibilities

As a Category Manager, you will:

• Lead procurement and contract management activities within your category.

• Develop and implement procurement strategies (short, medium, and long-term) to deliver savings and value.

• Conduct all procurement activities in the category, including the establishment of preferred suppliers.

• Prepare tender documentation using e-tendering platforms and lead competitive procurement processes.

• Facilitate tender evaluations, contract awards, and supplier performance reviews.

• Engage in supplier relationship management, contract mobilisation, and improvement initiatives.

• Lead or support complex and high-risk procurement activities, ensuring full compliance with the Procurement Act 2023.

• Support University colleagues during tender evaluations and moderation.

• Work collaboratively with senior procurement leadership to ensure delivery of annual savings targets.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Proven leadership and influencing capabilities.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Collaborative working style, with the ability to build effective stakeholder relationships.

• Strong analytical and risk assessment skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to change.

• Sound knowledge of procurement governance, policy, and current legislation.

• Expertise in strategic sourcing and category management.

Work Location

These roles are based at our main campus, located within easy reach of the city centre and well-served by public transport. Hybrid working is supported, with 1-2 days per week on site, increasing as policies evolve from 2026 onwards.