Head of Category

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Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Applicants are expected to present clear and relevant evidence of the competencies and responsibilities detailed in the attached Job Description and Person Specification, together with a demonstrated commitment to the Trust's values of Accountability, Inclusion, Compassion, and Empowerment.

Person specification

Education/Qualification

Essential criteria

• A postgraduate business or finance degree (MBA, MBL, CA) or equivalent experience
• Specialist knowledge over more than one discipline / function acquired over a significant period.
• Evidence of CPD

Desirable criteria

• MCIPS
• Appropriate professional registration is desirable Programme and/or Project Management qualification or equivalent experience

Skills and Knowledge

Essential criteria

• Experience of working within a role of developing and delivering long term category strategies
• Negotiation: A skilled negotiator with a broad range of skill sets
• Analysis: Skilled in being able to conduct analysis on complex data sets to provide concise insights
• Stakeholder Management: Strong stakeholder management skills, demonstrating ability to engage with stakeholders at multi levels
• Change Management: Understands change management and process improvement with experience in supporting business process / organisational change
• Strategy Delivery: Experience of delivering and implementing category and sourcing strategies, delivering strategies for various sub-categories
• Ability to process highly complex facts or situations requiring analysis, interpretation, comparison of a range of options

Desirable criteria

• Knowledge and awareness of NHS or wider healthcare sector operating models and policy developments would be advantageous, although not essential.

Experience

Essential criteria

• Previous experience of operating within a Commercial function
• Significant Senior Management experience, leading procurement and supplier management teams at a strategic level
• Significant experience in a Category Management role
• Modern procurement techniques and approaches, including strategic. cost management principles and strategic category management process knowledge.
• Category management strategy initiation, planning and development process leadership Demonstrable experience of delivering total cost of ownership savings by Category Management
• Specific and demonstrable category experience as required for the role, including evidence of significant associated benefits realisation.
• Experience in being responsible for financial resources including budgeting for a major area, budget setting and monitoring.
• Experience in line management of staff; leading and Managing.
• Others: Strong project leadership and management capabilities and experience, with capacity to manage multiple small and medium sized projects

Desirable criteria

• Knowledge and experience of EU procurement processes, using Government procurement frameworks

Other

Essential criteria

• Understanding of supplier management and can demonstrate development of a supplier over time.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the latest market and procurement trends within the category.
• Confident in the use of appropriate IT toolsets, including keyboard skills, use of IT equipment and systems.
• Ability to concentrate for long periods of time and flexibility to work in an unpredictable pattern.
• Ability to handle distressing or emotional circumstances for example imparting unwelcomes news or where performance targets have not been met

We review all applications carefully to ensure fairness and verify references. At interview, you will be asked about your experience, so be honest and ensure all information is accurate. The use of AI during interviews is not permitted.

If you use AI or other tools to support your application, it must reflect your own skills, knowledge, and experience. Supporting information should be in your own words and include your personal insights. AI can assist with drafting but may produce generic or inaccurate content. Applications that rely heavily on AI may lack authenticity and reduce your chances of success.

Due to high application volumes, this vacancy may close early. Please apply promptly if you meet the Person Specification. Only candidates who clearly demonstrate how they meet the criteria will be shortlisted. Interview details will be emailed after the closing date - please check your inbox regularly.

CLCH Trust does not recommend relying solely on AI when completing your application.

CLCH Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

CLCH is proud to be a Disability Confident Committed employer. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for providing exceptional patient care. We are dedicated to attracting and retaining talent from all backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, and people with disabilities.

As a Disability Confident employer, we pledge to:
• Guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for a role.
• Provide reasonable adjustments to support diverse needs throughout the recruitment and employment process.
• Challenge misconceptions about disability and foster an inclusive culture for everyone.

We are committed to building a workplace where all staff feel valued and have the opportunity to thrive. Simply let us know how we can support you.

Learn more about our equal opportunities policy on our website: Equal opportunities: Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust