Assistant Category Manager

Venn Group; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for an Interim Assistant Category Manager based in East London. The role involves providing expert procurement advice and managing procurement strategies across various categories. Ideal candidates should have experience in public sector procurement and familiarity with the Procurement Acts. The position offers a hybrid working model and a contract length of 3 months.

Benefits

Recommendation Scheme vouchers

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a similar role within a local authority.
• Proven ability to prepare detailed tender documentation and reports to agreed standards.
• Desirable for someone to have exposure to housing/regen/facilities categories but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support end-to-end procurement activities across multiple categories.
• Draft procurement documentation, including ITTs, ITQs and contract specifications.
• Manage tendering processes and facilitate supplier engagement at key stages.
• Conduct benchmarking, spend analysis and market research.
• Collaborate on category plans and procurement strategies.

Skills

Experience in public sector procurement

Knowledge of Procurement Act 2015

Knowledge of Procurement Act 2023

Tender documentation preparation

Job description

Interim Assistant Category Manager

Based in East London, hybrid working

Length: 3 months initially

IR35 status: Inside

Rate: £280 per day via an umbrella company

To provide expert advice, support, and guidance on all aspects of the procurement process for council departments, ensuring effective engagement with third‑party suppliers. The role supports the development, implementation and management of procurement and contracting strategies across all categories of expenditure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and support end‑to‑end procurement activities across multiple categories, ensuring compliance with UK regulations
• Draft procurement documentation, including ITTs, ITQs and contract specifications
• Manage tendering processes and facilitate supplier engagement at key stages
• Conduct benchmarking, spend analysis and market research to inform strategic decisions
• Collaborate on category plans and procurement strategies to deliver optimal outcomes
• Maintain accurate records and audit trails for transparency and governance
• Prepare high‑quality reports and documentation for board approvals

Skills, experience and knowledge required:

• Previous experience in a similar role within a local authority
• Proven experience with the Procurement Act 2015 and Procurement Act 2023
• Proven ability to prepare detailed tender documentation and reports to agreed standards
• Desirable for someone to have exposure to housing/regen/facilities categories but not essential

To apply for this role or to find out about other jobs, please contact the London Local Government Recruitment team on 020 7557 7667 or send your CV to [e-mail]

*Venn Group’s “Recommendation Scheme”: if you recommend a candidate who is subsequently placed by Venn Group (for a minimum of 2 weeks) you will be eligible for vouchers from a choice of high street organisations