Summary: The Category Leader role based in Preston involves developing and maintaining a category strategy for the procurement of consultancy services within a leading Defence organization. The position requires managing the end-to-end procurement process and fostering strong relationships with internal stakeholders. The role is hybrid, requiring 1-2 days on-site per week, and is initially a 6-month contract. The position is classified as inside IR35 and offers a competitive hourly rate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the development, review, and maintenance of a robust category strategy for consultancy procurement.
• Deliver sourcing exercises aligned with the category strategy and manage the end-to-end procurement process.
• Implement the IPS Supplier Relationship Management approach to maximize value from supplier relationships.
• Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders and address escalations promptly.
• Act as the first contact point for consultancy procurement.
• Work with stakeholders to identify and execute opportunities for process optimization.

Key Skills:

• Significant experience in the Consultancy industry and commercial models.
• High level of contract knowledge and negotiation experience.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Contract negotiation and management skills.
• Supplier relationship management expertise.
• Degree-level qualification or significant professional experience.
• CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma (MCIPS) or willingness to work towards it.

Salary (Rate): 45.50

City: Preston

Country: United Kingdom

Working Arrangements: hybrid

IR35 Status: inside IR35

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: Other