Senior Category Manager

Copello; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading procurement consultancy is seeking a Senior Category Manager to lead the end-to-end procurement of IT/ Information Systems categories. The role requires significant public sector procurement expertise, particularly working within complex environments. Responsibilities include managing the procurement lifecycle, developing category strategies, and leading negotiations on contracts. This position offers flexibility with three days onsite work in Berkshire and a competitive hourly rate based on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Category Manager or equivalent within the public sector.
• Demonstrable experience of end-to-end procurement of IT / IS categories.
• Strong working knowledge of public sector procurement regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end category management lifecycle for IT / IS.
• Deliver compliant public sector procurements.
• Manage complex tender processes.

Skills

Public sector procurement expertise

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

CIPS qualification (Level 5 or above)

Job description

Copello are recruiting for a Senior Category Manager to lead the end-to-end procurement and commercial management of IT / Information Systems (IS) categories within a complex public sector environment, on an initial 12 month contract. This role will play a key part in delivering compliant, value-for-money procurement solutions while supporting strategic commercial objectives.
The successful candidate will bring strong public sector procurement expertise, ideally with MOD or wider public sector experience, and a proven track record of managing complex IT/IS categories from strategy through to contract delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end category management lifecycle for IT / IS, including market analysis, category strategy development, sourcing, evaluation, award, and contract mobilisation
• Deliver compliant public sector procurements in line with relevant regulations (e.g. PCR 2015, CCS frameworks, and upcoming Procurement Act requirements)
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned to organisational objectives and value-for-money principles
• Manage complex tender processes, including competitive procedures, framework call-offs, and direct awards where appropriate
• Provide strong commercial and contract management, including supplier performance management, risk management, and dispute resolution
• Lead negotiations on high-value and high-risk contracts, ensuring robust commercial outcomes
• Engage effectively with internal stakeholders, including IT, legal, finance, and senior leadership, to shape requirements and deliver solutions
• Support continuous improvement of procurement processes, governance, and commercial capability
• Ensure robust documentation, audit trails, and governance in line with public sector standards

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Senior Category Manager or equivalent within the public sector
• MOD experience or strong exposure to regulated public sector environments is highly desirable
• Demonstrable experience of end-to-end procurement of IT / IS categories (e.g. software, hardware, digital services, managed services)
• Strong working knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and framework
• Extensive commercial and contract management experience, including supplier performance and risk management
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and influence at senior levels
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-governance environments

Desirable Qualifications

• CIPS qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent
• Experience working with CCS or other government frameworks
• Understanding of security-cleared or sensitive environments (MOD or defence-related procurement)

Role will require 3 days onsite per week in Berkshire

This role is offering a flexible hourly rate based on experience.