Category Manager

Job Title: Category Manager - Public Sector Procurement with a Commercial Edge
Location: Hybrid working (Bodmin office base, with flexibility to work from home)
Salary: £36,095 - £46,589

About the Role
If you’re a procurement category manager / senior buyer or a commercially minded procurement professional with or without public sector experience and looking to gain public sector experience without losing the drive for innovation and efficiency, this role is for you.

TalentTide Recruitment is working exclusively with an organisation that delivers a broad range of essential services, from infrastructure to environmental projects along with facilities management, care, adult social care, fleet services, and more. They’re searching for a Category Manager who can combine strategic procurement expertise with a proactive, results-driven mindset. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate success in strategic procurement, preferably with public sector exposure or an understanding with a commercial viewpoint.

This isn’t about box-ticking bureaucracy, it’s about managing a £25M+ procurement portfolio, leading supplier relationships, and delivering real value. You’ll work on diverse categories and be part of a team that embraces both public and private sector best practices.

What You’ll Be Doing:

* Leading procurement strategies for a diverse portfolio of goods, services, and works, ensuring compliance while driving innovation.

* Managing supplier relationships to ensure quality, value, and continuity of supply.

* Collaborating with internal stakeholders to identify opportunities, influence decisions, and implement improvements.

* Conducting tendering processes, from stakeholder engagement to contract mobilisation.

* Delivering supply chain management excellence, including supplier performance reviews and contract optimisation.

* Mentoring and developing team members, ensuring procurement practices align with regulations and best practice.

* Supporting the organisation’s transformation by embedding strategic category-led procurement.

What You’ll Need:

* A full professional qualification (MCIPS), or be willing to take steps to achieve this with the full training support or equivalent experience.

* Demonstrable success in strategic procurement, preferably with public sector exposure.

* A proven track record in contract tendering, supplier management, and delivering change.

* The ability to influence stakeholders at all levels, supported by excellent communication skills.

* Strong knowledge of public procurement frameworks, including FTS and Contracts Finder.

* A commercial mindset with the ability to balance compliance and innovation.

Why Join?

* Manage a £25M procurement portfolio, shaping how essential services are delivered.

* Enhance or gain public sector experience while maintaining a results-driven, commercial approach.

* Hybrid working model offering flexibility and work-life balance.

* A competitive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme, 23-28 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, and options for additional leave.

* Be part of a forward-thinking team that values collaboration, innovation, and personal development.

Ready to Apply?
This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while advancing your procurement career in a dynamic environment. Submit your CV today, and TalentTide will be in touch to discuss your next steps