Category Manager

Category Manager

The closing date is 16 March 2026.

The Peninsula Purchasing and Supply Alliance (PPSA) has an exciting opportunity to join its team as a Category Manager. PPSA is a regional, collaborative NHS procurement organisation, established in 2002 by the NHS for the NHS. It provides an integrated, procurement and commercial service across the South West region, working across 29 NHS organisations (7 ICs). In this regional role, the successful applicant must be based within the region.

As a key member of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, you will help our patients stay healthy when they need it most. The Category Manager will lead the regional delivery of efficient procurement through the development and implementation of effective projects and contracts across a designed portfolio.

Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, the Trust has a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making it the largest employer in Devon. Core services are delivered to more than 615,000 people across 2,000 square miles of Devon, with specialist services extending to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We provide emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

In addition, we offer integrated health and social care services in community hospitals, outpatient clinics and in patients’ homes, as well as primary care and specialist community services, including Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC). State‑of‑the‑art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities position us at the forefront of research and innovation.

Lead collaboration in standardising products and services, aggregation of volumes and market commitment. Oversee the development, negotiation and management of contracts to ensure compliance and optimal performance, and monitor supplier performance against agreed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Ensure procurement activities support combined objectives of stakeholders, promote sustainable procurement practices and mitigate procurement risks. Deliver the above through effective communication and lead multidisciplinary teams.

Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, hybrid working mainly home‑based with some travel within the South West.

Interview Date: to be advised.

For further information please contact: Kathleen Dennis, Head of Medical, Surgical and Non‑Clinical Procurement –   or Davina Mortimer, Director of Procurement –  

Pay: The salary reflects the Agenda for Change 2026‑7 rates, including a 3.3% pay award from April 2026. If you join before this date, remuneration will be based on the 2025‑6 pay bandings.

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures and abilities.

Preference will be given to staff with Priority and ‘At Risk’ status, including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

We support learning and development, offering funding for care certificates, degrees or leadership qualifications, as well as days off for CPD or rotational placements to hone your skills.

We strive to help staff create a healthy work‑life balance through flexible working schemes and family‑friendly policies. New NHS staff start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays. Benefits include occupational health services, counselling, well‑being activities and groups.

Access a range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options, and spread technology and…