Deputy Category Manager - IT

A leading HE establishment seeks a Deputy Category Manager for their Procurement Team.

Your new company
Our client has been at the forefront of UK higher education for nearly a century. Over the decades they have become innovators and pioneers, pushing academic boundaries and leading social change.

Your new role
The Deputy Category Manager is responsible for supporting procurement activity, analysis of cost data, savings opportunities and investigating market information in support of the procurement Category Management team. This position will be responsible for the following:
Providing support to the IT Category Manager regarding market intelligence, financial analysis, management information and risk.
Independently working across multiple procurement specialist teams to provide support to the Category Managers including assisting in developing category strategies with the use of market intelligence, spend data, risk and management information.
Analyse demand, market intelligence, spend data, risk and management information and prepare reports in support of the University of Reading procurement strategy development.
Supporting procurement activity on behalf of the business stakeholders. This will include tendering, completing post competition analysis, assisting in selection and contract negotiation.
When required deputise for the IT Category Manager.

What you'll need to succeed
Proven/demonstrable ability to filter/manipulate and analyse data to inform procurement strategy. Eg. Spend data. Ability to demonstrate a logical approach to allocated tasks.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with key stakeholders.
Proven competency of computer software skills -Microsoft Office.
Keen attention to detail.
Ability to network effectively across multiple business groups.
Ability to work independently under own motivation.
Fosters effective teamwork and collaboration.
Strong written presentation skills.
Ability to influence and guide stakeholder decision making processes as well as the confidence to challenge decisions which conflict with policies and procedures.
A good level of education.
Willing to commit to work towards Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) qualification
Skilled in the application of various procurement approaches.
Understanding of contract and supply chain management including driving improvements in line with the University strategy.
Previous experience in either procurement, purchasing or supply-chain.
Previous experience of stakeholder management inc. resolving disputes and diffusing adversarial situations between stakeholders and suppliers.
Previous experience of conducting data analysis related to procurement, finance or spend.
Previous experience in working with stakeholders to develop a fit for purpose specification or set of requirements.
Previous experience in working with stakeholders to develop a set of suitable tender questions
Project a professional image and demonstrate a proactive attitude.
Willingness to learn and self-develop.
Outgoing and approachable..
Creative, imaginative and able to approach problems with an open mind.
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What you'll get in return

40 days holiday, training and development opportunities. Salary Exchange Schemes.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
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