We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Procurement Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing and category management activities within the construction / infrastructure sector, in line with EU public procurement directives and Irish public procurement regulations. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering value through effective procurement strategies, supplier relationship management, and compliance with public sector procurement frameworks.
Responsibilities:
* Review and implement category strategies for construction-related goods, services, and works.
* Lead end-to-end procurement processes in compliance with EU public procurement directives and national regulations.
* Manage tendering activities including review of specifications, evaluation criteria, and contract award documentation.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
* Monitor contract performance and ensure service delivery meets agreed key performance indicators and service level agreements.
* Support risk management, sustainability, and social value initiatives within the procurement function.
* Provide expert advice on procurement legislation, frameworks, and best practices.
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and procurement transformation projects.
* Lead and manage key procurement activities and the overall development, execution and success of the assigned procurement packages.
* Review and implement the Client’s procurement policies, processes and controls to ensure that all purchases are executed in line with the associated procurement strategy and sourcing strategy.
* Maintain up to date best practice knowledge on relevant regulations, market intelligence, commodity trends and new sources of supply.
* Monitor marketplace developments and communicate these to client’s personnel
Qualifications:
* Proven experience in procurement category management within the construction / infrastructure industry.
* Strong knowledge of EU Public Procurement rules, including OJEU/TED procedures and frameworks.
* Experience managing complex tenders and contracts in a regulated environment.
* Experience with NEC, JCT, or FIDIC contract forms.
* Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Proficiency in procurement systems and tools (e.g., e Tendering platforms, ERP systems).
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
* Relevant university degree in Procurement, Commercial Management, Finance, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Law, Project Management, or other related discipline. (CIPS qualification desirable).
Essential Skills
* Ability to operate and execute effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and challenging deadlines.
* Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the business, markets, and regulations it operates within.
* Demonstrates a highly effective understanding and ability to utilise supplier market dynamics and analysis.
* Process-oriented with strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving capabilities.
* Highly effective change management skills in complex and multidiscipline environments.
