Procurement Category Manager

Senior Category Manager – Acquisition, Design, Construction & Engineering

Contract/ Permanent

Theale/Hybrid - 3 Days per week onsite

Are you an experienced procurement professional looking for a challenging and dynamic role? We are seeking a Senior Category Manager to take ownership of a range of sub-categories within our key delivery areas, including Acquisition, Design, Engineering, and Construction.

In this role, you will develop and implement commercial strategies to optimise value-for-money, reduce supplier-related risks, and deliver exceptional sourcing events. You’ll work closely with internal stakeholders to drive commercial benefits, service improvements, and process efficiencies across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities of the Senior Category Manager include:

• Category Strategy Management: Lead and deliver sub-category strategies that support our business objectives. Challenge materials, specifications, and supply sources to improve value.
• Supplier Base Management: Ensure suppliers have the necessary capabilities and are aligned with the company's requirements, handling issues with supplier performance as needed.
• Stakeholder Relationship Management: Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure procurement governance and post-award management.
• Supplier Negotiation: Negotiate new and renewal contracts with suppliers to secure service, quality, value, and supply chain security. Lead negotiations for large, complex projects.
• Process Management: Manage procurement processes from inception to contract handover, ensuring diligent execution and compliance with corporate policy.
• Reporting & Monitoring: Track initiatives and supplier performance, reporting on financial benefits and risks.

The successful Senior Category Manager will have:

• Significant experience in procurement, sourcing, or contract management in a commercial environment. Expertise in change management and category sourcing strategies.
• Strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and process management skills. Strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently.
• Degree preferred, with 7+ years in a relevant procurement or supply chain role. CIPS membership/accreditation is advantageous but not essential.