Senior Category Manager

Copello; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Category Manager to oversee the procurement and management of IT and Information Systems categories in a public sector context. This role demands a candidate with strong procurement expertise, especially within the MOD or regulated environments, and a proven track record in managing complex categories. Flexible hourly rate is based on experience, with a requirement to be onsite 3 days a week in Berkshire.

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 category management lifecycle for IT / IS, including market analysis.
• Deliver compliant public sector procurements in line with regulations.
• Manage complex tender processes and supplier performance.

Skills

Public sector procurement expertise

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Stakeholder relationship management

Education

CIPS qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent

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