TXM Recruit have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Category Manager, to join our Train Operating Client in the west midlands, joining their team as a Senior Category Manager, leading a team of 2 category managers and an Analyst. 

You will lead a team of procurement professionals and act as subject matter expert to the businesses for all commercial and contractual matters, providing specialist advice and expertise on strategies to meet company objectives to protect the company interest and maximise value-for money.

You will be responsible for leading the development of procurement plans and strategies for a defined portfolio relating to Property Projects, maximising the value-for-money in the acquisition of goods and services through sustainable, efficient and effective practices, using a proven Category Management approach.

These property projects could involve station installs, building upgrades, modernisation/digitalisation

You will work with the Head of Client Relationships & Contracts to manage the contractual interfaces between our client and other parties, including the Department for Transport, relating to assessing and categorising ongoing spend, and the management of risks and compliance, whilst ensuring the National Rail Contract (NRC) Business Plan Commitments (BPC) are met.

Our client have the sign off to pay up to £60,000 for this post. 
They have hybrid working in place, with 2 days typically expected in the office (Birmingham) with 3 days WFH
Flexibility is available on this, with the main focus being that the work is completed each week

We would be looking at a first stage teams interview, followed by a face to face.

What does the job involve?

• Proactively lead all procurement activities, ensuring that the tendering processes and our client's procurement policies and where necessary Utilities Contract Regulations (UCR) are followed at all times.
• Provide commercial and contractual advice to the business where required.
• Prime point of contact for all commercial and contractual matters relating to the Property Projects category spends and leads all commercial meetings.
• Point of contact for all procurement queries and coordinate activities with the procurement team as appropriate
• Preparing tender documentation and liaising with the Property Project Team to establish all required supporting tender documents.
• Administering invitation to tender process to ensure timely receipt of documentation, and distribution to the relevant evaluators within the business.
• Coordinate evaluation process and production of report to gain approval for progression.
• Prepare and negotiate contracts and contract amendments necessary to meet business requirements.
• Liaise with the Department for Transport to obtain approval of Key Contracts and other related Approvals/consents in line with the NRC Agreement.
• Provide the primary interface between our client and external lawyers for matters relating to contracts.
• Resolve escalated contract disputes with the assistance of Head of Client Relationships & Contracts
• Attend contract review meetings where necessary.
• Work with the Head of Client Relationships & Contracts to deliver business requirements, where necessary representing Procurement at meetings.
• Work with the Head of Client Relationships & Contracts with the review and development of the procurement policies and procedures to respond to the demanding needs of the business.
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade.

What skills and experience do I need to do the job?

• Significant procurement experience in Category Management activities for large and complex organisations
• Experience of project management techniques, developing category strategies and managing complex procurement projects including business cases, options appraisal, tender documentation, tender evaluation and contract award processes
• Strong communication negotiation and influencing skills.
• Experience in building relationships at senior levels, as well as a good understanding of procurement best practice.
• Experience of tendering under the Utilities Contract Regulations (UCR).
• Experience of using large construction projects with NEC Contracts.
• Sound commercial and financial awareness.
• Good analytical skills with attention to detail
• Experience of working with and interpreting complex legal documentation.
• Experience of working with e-procurement tendering systems. Training will be given.
• Experience in management and negotiation of large contracts.
• Experience of working with legal advisors and instructing legal advice.
• Ability to multi task and manage several concurrent conflicting deadlines.
• Experience of managing a small procurement team.
• Experience within the UK Rail Industry preferred but not required.
• Educated to degree standard (desirable)
• Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Membership (CIPS).

What are the salary and benefits?

• Salary up to £60,000 per annum
• Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within our parent group company - for you, your partner and any dependent children
• 75% off all other train company travel tickets
• Retail discounts
• Career development opportunities

* Key takeaways from what our client desire from a suitable candidate, are that you are procurement specialist - knowledgeable in Tenders and compliance and Utilities contracts along with public regs procurement. Previous experience in Team Leadership and management as this role would depend on you to develop the team into a successful one.

** Please click apply if you feel your experience would make you a good fit for this role, I will review your CV and get in contact to discuss 

*** TXM Recruit is an equal opportunities employer. If you have any specific requirements or require assistance or reasonable adjustments to be made for you during the selection or application process due to disability or a long-term health condition, we will do our best to assist you.