Assistant Category Manager

Do you want to be part of a team that's transforming the lives of over 30,000 pupils across 41 schools? We're looking for an exceptional procurement professional to support our Procurement Team in delivering the goods and services essential for running our schools. Your work will help ensure that all children, regardless of their starting point, receive an excellent education.

As a not-for-profit organisation, we actively recruit from diverse professional backgrounds. We all work together to raise educational standards for all pupils, irrespective of their socio-economic background. Our goal is to serve our local communities and give pupils the very best life chances to fulfil their aspirations. If you'd relish the opportunity to help deliver this vision, then this is the organisation for you.

Overall purpose of Post

To support the Head of Procurement in everyday procurement activity to our schools by procuring goods, works and services to ensure students get the most out of the funding available for their education. You will be responsible for leading on procurement across all non-staffing spend to suppliers to maximise the value for money secured for our students. This is an ambitious, growing organisation, with a national profile. As a key member of this team, you will have significant scope for future development and will be instrumental in the ongoing success of over 30,000 students, and therefore, the organisation.

You will need to have:

• A strong working knowledge of public sector contracts, The Procurement Act 2023 and navigating Find a Tender Service (FTS) thresholds.

• Proven ability to draft complex specifications, manage e-tendering platforms, and design robust evaluation criteria.

• Skilled in spend analysis and identifying opportunities for collaborative buying to achieve Value for Money (VfM).

• Experience conducting formal supplier reviews and managing delivery against Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

• Excellent communication skills across a variety of stakeholders and the ability to build and maintain strong relationships.

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records and work with a strong attention to detail.

• The ability to plan and prioritise work to meet commitments aligned with organisational goals.

• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle as required.

What We Offer

• Meaningful Impact: Contribute to the development of future generations and make a positive difference in their lives.

• Career Growth: Work in a growing organisation with opportunities for professional development.

• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a supportive and collaborative team that values teamwork and innovation.

• Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme and employee benefits package.

To view the full job description please click here

To view the person specification please click here

Hours: 8:00-16:00.

Start date: As soon as possible.

If you require further information please contact Suzi Richards (Head of Procurement) on s.richards@outwood.com

For more information and to apply online, please click the apply button.

Closing date: 10.00am on 19 January 2026.

Interview date: 28 January 2026.

We reserve the right to close advertisements early. Advertisements will therefore close the day the decision has been taken to close the advertisement early.

Outwood Grange Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment practices and the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and checks regarding suitability to work with children.