A public sector organisation based in Reading is seeking a Procurement Category Officer (Social Value) to join a forward-thinking procurement team.

This is a key role where you’ll take the lead on high-value, high-impact procurement projects, shaping category strategies and embedding social value outcomes across the Council’s commissioning activity.

You’ll work at the heart of the organisation, partnering with senior stakeholders to deliver commercially robust, compliant, and value-driven procurement solutions that align with wider organisational priorities.

This is a permanent position based in Reading with excellent hybrid working (1 day per week in the office) and a salary of £50,000 + excellent benefits.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading on procurement category strategies for high-value and high-risk contracts
• Providing expert commercial and procurement advice to senior stakeholders and directorates
• Driving the delivery of the Social Value Procurement Strategy
• Identifying opportunities for cost savings, efficiencies, and innovation across category spend
• Leading procurement transformation initiatives and supporting best practice
• Developing and embedding procurement processes, tools, and governance frameworks
• Designing and delivering training and guidance to improve procurement capability across the organisation
• Engaging with external partners and suppliers to maximise social value outcomes

About You

We’re looking for a commercially minded procurement professional who can balance strategic thinking with practical delivery.

You’ll have:

• Strong experience in public sector procurement or complex commercial environments
• A solid understanding of UK procurement legislation and regulatory frameworks
• Experience delivering procurement projects that achieve value for money and broader social outcomes
• The ability to influence stakeholders and build strong cross-functional relationships
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex procurement concepts clearly
• Experience supporting or delivering procurement training and guidance
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong organisational skills

Qualifications

• CIPS Level 5 (or working towards) or equivalent experience
• Contract Management accreditation (or willingness to undertake)

Why Join?

• Play a key role in delivering meaningful social value outcomes for the community
• Work on high-impact, strategic procurement projects
• Opportunities to shape and influence procurement transformation
• Hybrid working and a supportive, collaborative environment
• Strong focus on professional development and progression