Category Specialist – Public Sector Procurement

About the role

VOX Consultants are seeking an experienced Category Specialist to support a West London local authority on a three‑month contract. You will lead procurement projects, develop sourcing strategies and ensure value for money across multiple council categories.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end procurement projects for allocated categories.
• Provide expert procurement advice to senior stakeholders.
• Develop category plans and sourcing strategies that deliver value for money.
• Manage supplier relationships and monitor contract performance.
• Ensure all procurement activity complies with legislation and council regulations.
• Collaborate with commissioners, finance, legal and operational teams.
• Support continuous improvement and best practice within the procurement function.

Required profile

• Proven experience in public sector procurement within a local authority.
• CIPS qualification (or equivalent experience) with progression towards chartered status desirable.
• Strong knowledge of category management, strategic sourcing and contract management.
• Excellent commercial awareness, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage end‑to‑end procurement exercises.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• £500 per day (umbrella arrangement).
• Three‑month ongoing contract with potential extension.
• Monday‑Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm working hours.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact public sector projects.