Procurement Category Manager, EPC, Civil and Electrical Contractor
Position Description
Applications are invited for the position of Category Manager in the ESB Networks EPC, Civil and Electrical Contractor Procurement Team.
Networks Strategic Procurement are responsible for the procurement of a wide range of materials, contractors and services that enable ESB Networks to deliver its work programs. As part of the ESB Networks Strategic Procurement Team, the EPC (Engineer, Procure, Construct), Civil and Electrical Contractor Procurement Team manages the procurement of works contracts and frameworks to deliver ESB Networks activities across a range of categories including, but not limited to, EPC and design and build substations, civil works (greenfield and live substation environments), distribution and transmission cable, electrical works.
The successful candidate will act as procurement lead for complex electrical infrastructural construction projects and frameworks. They will own, manage and be responsible for end-to-end construction procurement processes delivered in compliance applicable EU directives and internal policies and procedures.
The role will primarily focus on procurement and contract strategy development, tender document development and procurement process management up to contract or framework award.
The successful candidate will be required to provide expert procurement, contract and commercial strategy advice to internal business units and customers/stakeholders on a diverse range of proposed projects and frameworks within their appointed categories.
The successful candidate will require a strong background in the procurement of traditional, design and build and EPC projects and frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting end to end EPC, Civil and Electrical Contracting tender processes in accordance with ESB procurement procedures and statutory regulations.
- Working closely with framework owners/managers within ESB Networks and Engineering and Major Projects to define their requirements and identify appropriate procurement strategies.
- Assisting in the preparation of annual procurement plans, Category Plans and Source Plans for EPC, Civil and Electrical categories of spend.
- Utilising procurement and market knowledge, provide support, advice, and direction for these categories of spend.
- Ensuring procurement legislation/procedures are followed and maintained.
- Working with legal/insurance department in the preparation/development of contracts, bonding requirements etc.
- Supporting the building of quality relationships with internal and external stakeholders (including key vendors/suppliers).
- Facilitating the preparation and issue of mini-tenders and tenders for contracts and frameworks.
- Managing the procurement aspects of existing contracts and framework agreements.
- Guiding others in resolving complex issues in specialised areas.
- Assisting procurement manager in mentoring staff.
- Interpreting internal and external business issues and recommends solutions/best practice.
- Maintaining knowledge and skills in relation to relevant market knowledge and developments in procurement under EU Utilities Directive.
- Serving as best practice/quality resource within own discipline or as technical expert on functional or cross-functional teams or projects.
- Providing excellent customer service.
Experience and Qualifications
Essential
- A relevant third‑level qualification, Procurement qualification or equivalent relevant work experience.
- Minimum of 10 years relevant work experience in a procurement role or commercial role within the construction/utilities industry.
- Significant experience in the procurement or contract/commercial management of construction projects, with a proven track record of successfully delivering procurement processes for works projects.
- Experience in drafting tender documents and contracts for major building, civil engineering, or utilities projects.
- Good knowledge of EU and Government procurement legislation, policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Strong commercial acumen, with a high level of personal commitment and excellent interpersonal and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
- A clear focus on the delivery of high‑quality work and continuous improvement.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively, share knowledge and work within a team‑based environment.
- Very good working knowledge and experience of MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
- Full Driving Licence
Desirable
- Experience in the procurement of works in accordance with either Public Procurement Directive or Utilities Directive.
- A recognised professional qualification in Procurement, Engineering, or Quantity Surveying.
- Experience working with SAP and SharePoint–based systems, including SAP FMIS and SRM.
- Working knowledge of, or experience with the FIDIC suite of construction contracts.
- Practical experience using eTenders for the management of procurement processes.
Location
The role will have a base location in an ESB Networks office. The successful candidate may combine remote/smart working within the Republic of Ireland with attendance at the base location, the frequency of which will be determined by the line manager and subject to ongoing review.
There will also be a requirement to attend meetings in Dublin, including at the Networks Procurement main office in Finglas, Dublin 11, and at other locations as required. Occasional foreign travel may also be necessary.
Reporting To
EPC, Civil and Electrical Contractor Procurement Category Manager
Why Work with Us?
- Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future
- Career development through mentoring and training
- Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities
- Sports and Social Clubs
- Networking opportunities
- Credit Union
- Generous Pension
- Access to staff well-being programmes
- Generous parental leave entitlements
- Strong values-based and inclusive culture
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
- Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted
Salary
€71,000 - €84,000 per annum.
Closing Date
13th of May, 2026