Category Manager, Direct Procurement

ITM is at the forefront of the green hydrogen industry, designing and manufacturing cutting-edge PEM electrolysers that are instrumental in global decarbonisation efforts. With over two decades of scientific expertise, we have established ourselves as industry leaders in clean energy technology.

As pioneers in green hydrogen technology, ITM is offering the most advanced PEM electrolyser technology in the world. Founded in 2000, ITM Power PLC was one of the first companies of its kind to be listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. Headquartered in the UK, our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is the world's largest PEM Gigafactory in commercial operation, and home to our R&D and manufacturing. ITM Power Germany is our hub in the heart of the EU, housing regional functions including business development and engineering, as well as our Aftersales services.

Our PEM electrolysers are deployed in some of the world's largest green hydrogen projects. We continue to push the boundaries of technology, enhancing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

ITM is in the midst of a transformative phase, focusing on streamlined delivery and operational excellence. We are seeking talented individuals who share our passion for clean energy and our drive to make a tangible impact on the world's transition to net-zero.

You will be working with an inspiring team, encouraging each other to be the best we can. Join us in the next step of our incredible journey!

What are we looking for

Reporting to the Procurement Director, the Category Manager (Direct) will lead the creation and integration of commodity/category strategies and all associated strategic sourcing and commercial activities; ensure adequate level of contractual coverage with the aim of mitigating commercial risk, optimising commercial advantage, providing security of supply and acceptable levels of liability. The Category Manager will develop and lead the strategic relationship(s) at a top to top level creating value and competitive advantage and will proactively support developing strategic sourcing capability within the function as well as coach and mentor talent within the business area. The role will also be required to deputise for the Procurement Director as required.

Responsibilities

• Supplier Relationship: Accountable for the effective top to top management and strategic direction of partners and suppliers.
• Cost Management: Deliver long term cost improvement in all relevant activities in line with business plans, including leveraging cost reductions across spend commodities and categories.
• Strategic Sourcing: Accountable for planning and leading sourcing and commercial activities to maximise the value proposition across all major commodities/categories.
• Strategy: Develop, deploy and communicate relevant integrated commodity/category/supplier strategies, providing a clear vision and strategic framework for the designated supply chain(s).
• Quality and Delivery: Select a supply chain capable of meeting quality and delivery requirements and ensuring the management and rectification of quality.
• Processes and Procedures: Lead the teams compliance to company policies, processes and procedures, ensuring all purchasing records and documents are correct and maintained in line with regulatory requirements.
• Resource Management: Lead the recruitment, line management and capability development of strategic sourcing team and supplier quality.
• Stakeholder Management: Nurture effective relationships with multiple stakeholders, both internal and external to the function in order to integrate functional priorities.
• Supplier Code of Conduct: Responsible for understanding supplier obligations contained in the ITM Supplier Code of Conduct and addressing any supplier compliance concerns through direct action or escalation.

About You

• BA degree or equivalent or significant industry experience.
• Ideally MCIPs qualified or equivalent qualifications necessary in areas such as Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, Contract Management, Operations Management, Logistics.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic agility.
• Proven track record of delivering results.
• Global outlook and exposure to different challenges, cultures and ways of working.
• Familiarity with purchasing and supply chain management.
• Able to build and develop strong network relationships throughout the business.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to produce and present business critical written documentation such as business cases and strategies.
• Strong leadership, communication and people skills.
• Highly effective and confident collaboration skills.
• Strong negotiation skills and effective at influencing others at all levels of an organisation.
• Strong programme management skills.
• Results ownership.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.

What We Offer

The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly growing industry, within a dynamic environment where you can shape the future of energy and work with a team that is actively addressing global climate challenges. Our corporate culture values safety, integrity and continuous improvement.

A competitive salary and an excellent contributory pension, 25 days holiday and a wider range of benefits including:

• Buy as you earn (BAYE) share scheme.
• Birthday holiday.
• Holiday Purchase.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Lifestyle Discounts.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Health Cash Plan.
• Eye Care.
• Gym Scheme.
• Life assurance.
• EV Car Leasing.
• Enhanced Parental Leave.
• Motor Save Scheme.
• Tech Save Scheme.

Our onsite parking includes free electric car charging points. We know your career is important to you, it is important to us too, which is why we also offer opportunities for you to grow and develop your career. If you are looking to join a growing, dynamic business and want to be part of our amazing team we would love to hear from you.

Our success is driven by the exceptional diversity of our people. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting and creating a diverse and inclusive environment where we encourage our employees to learn and grow, fuelled by mutual respect in a place where ideas flow and thrive.