Location
Morden Civic Centre

Hours
Full Time - Permanent

Salary
£63,966 - £66,378 per annum

About the Role
We are Merton United, One Borough one Team at an exciting point in our journey. Working for Merton means that you will be making a difference to the lives of local residents and businesses. Together we are finding new ways to work more efficiently to serve our community.

As Procurement at Merton continues to evolve, we are looking for a skilled, commercially motivated Category Manager to help us achieve significant savings and cost efficiencies. The role will be pivotal in driving forward and challenging the Council’s approach to Category Management and its Make or Buy agenda. The role will also be integral in assisting the Council deliver its strategic priorities and its Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), in line with the changes brought about by the new Public Procurement Act.

As one of two commercial strategic leads, you will bring commercial and procurement expertise and acumen to senior level business planning and decision-making. It is essential that the post holder fosters strong and effective working relationships with the directorates, including the Corporate Leadership Team (CLT) and Members. The post holder will influence, advise and constructively challenge to achieve the best possible outcomes for our residents through the Council’s considerable external spend. As the commercial and procurement specialist on Departmental Procurement Boards, the post holder will participate in decision-making, driving efficiency and forward planning across the Council.

We are an excellent and fair employer that celebrates and values diversity. A place where you can be your best self at work, where you are listened to and supported to flourish and develop your career.

Please see our why work for us page on our website for more information about a great range of benefits that go beyond salary and offer flexibility to suit you.

Experience
Proven commercial and procurement expertise with experience in category management and strategic sourcing. Experience working with senior leadership teams and influencing decision-making processes is essential.

About you
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build effective working relationships across multiple directorates and with Members. Commercially motivated with the ability to challenge constructively and drive cost efficiencies. Strategic thinker with the ability to align procurement activities with organisational priorities and financial strategies.

Qualifications
Relevant professional procurement or commercial qualifications are desirable. A strong understanding of the Public Procurement Act and its implications is required.