Category Manager - Procurement   

Permanent contract, based at Service Headquarters, Bridle Road, Bootle, Merseyside

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented Category Manger to join Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s (MFRS) Procurement team.  As well as being a busy team operating within a metropolitan fire and rescue service, MFRS has a leading regional role for Northwest Fire and Rescue Services.  The Service collaborates nationally and is also the lead authority for the Long-Term Capability Management contract that facilitates National Resilience - the UK Government’s Fire and Rescue response to major incidents.

Being responsible for the procurement of a portfolio of goods and services including personal protective equipment, operational equipment and training services, you will join the team during an extensive asset refresh programme.

Reporting to and supported by the Head of Procurement, the role includes all procurement aspects to ensure successful delivery against challenging timeframes.  This high-profile role also requires relationship management with MFRS’s Senior Leadership Team and other stakeholders including those within Home Office.

The post has many opportunities for autonomy and responsibility, so as to ensure service continuity and new assets’ integration.  You will be a self-starter who requires minimal supervision and oversight from senior colleagues. You will be keen to continue to hone your judgement and professional/technical skills, taking pride in your work whilst supporting and developing others.  You will be encouraged and supported in your professional development.  You will need to fulfil this role in a way that is reflective of our values: courage, integrity, compassion, and display a high degree of flexibility, accountability and initiative.

You will already possess a CIPS qualification whilst being accredited in transforming public procurement is also desirable. Similarly, having previous experience of procurement for fire service or blue light applications is desirable, this is not a prerequisite.

The full list of Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge and Skills have been detailed in the accompanying Person Specification and more specific information about the role can be found in the Job Profile.

We offer a competitive package with some great benefits available for employees:

• Flexible, hybrid working arrangements based around a 35 hour working week (full time roles).
• Flexitime with the ability to accrue up to 3 days flexi per month.
• 23 days holiday (rising to 28 after 5 years’ service), plus Bank holidays and 2 additional Extra Statutory days added to the holiday
  entitlement
• Access to a free gym
• Free, secure parking and access to a staff canteen
• Access to a Local Government Pension scheme with contributions made by both the employee and by MFRS
• Excellent Health & Wellbeing services

Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 5 January 2025

Interviews: Wednesday 15 January 2025

About Us

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is at the forefront of public safety and emergency response, serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside with dedication and professionalism. Our mission is to protect, prevent, and respond—ensuring the safety and well-being of the public, both in times of crisis and through proactive community engagement.

With a proud history and a strong sense of purpose, we operate across a diverse region that includes bustling urban centers, industrial hubs, and serene rural areas. Our highly skilled and committed teams work tirelessly to provide fire and rescue services, enforce fire safety regulations, and deliver critical prevention and education programs.

PENSION CONSIDERATIONS

Annual Allowance

Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Annual Allowance implications. A breach in the Annual Allowance threshold could result in a Tax charge. Further information on Annual Allowance can be obtained from the Pensions team, or the Pension Administrator website (Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd – website - lppapensions.co.uk, Annual Allowance Information -  Annual Allowance)

Lifetime Allowance

Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Lifetime Allowance implications. A breach in the Lifetime Allowance threshold will result in a Tax charge. Further information on Lifetime Allowance can be obtained from our Pensions team, or the Pension Administrator website (Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd – website - lppapensions.co.uk, Lifetime Allowance Information - Lifetime Allowance)

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s recruitment and selection procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Adults, Children and Young People and all staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

Safeguarding

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s recruitment and selection procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Adults, Children and Young People and all staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.