Commercial Category Lead

Summer-Browning Associates; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Summer-Browning Associates is supporting a Central Government client in London for a Commercial Category Lead on an initial 6-month assignment with hybrid working.

The role requires extensive IT DDaT procurement experience in the public sector, leadership of a commercial team, and strong supplier negotiation. Familiarity with CCS Frameworks, the Green Book and related regulations is essential. This position is based in London with hybrid working arrangements.

Qualifications

• Experience in end-to-end procurement for IT DDaT initiatives within the public sector.
• Proven track record of procuring innovative solutions including AI, data platforms, SaaS, digital delivery services, cloud technologies and infrastructure.
• Leadership experience mentoring a commercial team to achieve success.
• Strong commercial acumen for negotiating with suppliers, managing costs and engaging stakeholders.
• Understanding of government playbooks, policies and guidelines for IT DDaT sourcing.
• Hands-on experience managing procurements through CCS Frameworks and other frameworks (call-off, mini-competitions, direct awards, dynamic purchasing models).
• Familiarity with business cases per HM Treasury Green Book framework.
• Knowledge of Procurement Act 2023 and Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
• Certifications such as MCIPS or IACCM

Skills

End-to-end IT DDaT procurement

Public sector procurement

Team leadership

Supplier negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

CCS Frameworks knowledge

Green Book knowledge

Procurement act & regs 2023/2015

MCIPS or IACCM

Job description

Commercial Category Lead - IT DDaT (Digital, Data and Technology)

Summer-Browning Associates is currently supporting a client within Central Government who is seeking a Commercial Category Lead for an initial 6-month assignment, with the possibility of extension.

Location: London | Hybrid Working

• Experience in conducting end-to-end procurement for IT digital, data, and technology (DDaT) initiatives within the public sector.
• A proven track record of procuring innovative solutions, including AI, data platforms, Software as a Service (SaaS), digital delivery services, cloud technologies, and infrastructure.
• Leadership experience in guiding and mentoring a commercial team to achieve collective success.
• Strong commercial acumen for negotiating with suppliers, managing costs effectively, and engaging stakeholders to foster productive relationships.
• A comprehensive understanding of government playbooks, policies, and guidelines, particularly those related to sourcing IT digital and data strategies.
• Hands‑on experience managing procurements through CCS Frameworks and other frameworks, including call‑off procedures, mini‑competitions, direct awards, and dynamic purchasing models.
• Familiarity with business cases in accordance with HMT's Green Book framework.
• Knowledge of the Procurement Act 2023 and the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
• Relevant professional certifications, such as MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) or IACCM (International Association for Contract & Commercial Management)