Interim IT Procurement Category Manager

Our Local Authority client based just outside of Liverpool are seeking an experienced IT Procurement Category Manager to lead and manage procurement activity across the IT and Technology category, ensuring the delivery of compliant, value-for-money procurement solutions that support organisational objectives. The role provides expert procurement advice to senior stakeholders, manages complex and high-risk procurements, and drives the development and implementation of category strategies in line with the Procurement Act 2023, Contract Procedure Rules, and best practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end procurement and tendering activities for IT, Data and Technology.
• Develop and implement category strategies that deliver value for money, social value and risk mitigation.
• Provide specialist procurement advice and guidance to service areas, project teams, senior management and suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with the Procurement Act 2023, Contract Procedure Rules and relevant procurement legislation.
• Support market engagement, sourcing strategies, tender evaluations, contract negotiations and contract awards.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers and external partners to support strategic procurement objectives.
• Monitor contract performance, maintain the Contracts Register and support effective contract renewal planning.
• Produce reports, management information and recommendations for senior leadership, Cabinet and committee reporting.
• Champion procurement best practice, innovation, sustainability and the use of technology to improve procurement outcomes.
• Support the development and supervision of procurement staff, providing coaching, training and professional guidance.

Key Requirements

• Significant experience in public sector procurement and category management.
• Strong knowledge of procurement legislation, contract management and strategic sourcing practices.
• Proven ability to manage complex procurement projects and deliver successful commercial outcomes.
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Experience of using e-procurement systems and procurement technologies.
• Strong analytical, report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to balance competing priorities and manage multiple projects to tight deadlines.
• Relevant professional procurement qualification (e.g. CIPS) or equivalent experience desirable.

Success Measures

Success in this role will be demonstrated through delivery of procurement savings and outcomes, compliance with legislative requirements, positive audit findings, stakeholder satisfaction, effective supplier relationships, successful contract management and the achievement of social value and organisational priorities.