Category Manager - Professional Services...

Job Description Category Manager – Professional Services – Newcastle / hybrid The role will be responsible for developing and executing category strategies for professional services, including consulting, legal, financial, and other related services. The Category Manager – Professional Services will also work on master agreements with our suppliers to ensure streamlined procurement activities globally. Skills / experience – Extensive experience in professional services procurement. – Experience / Knowledge of category, supplier, and contract management (specifically contracts over £1m). – Experience of marking up statements of work, and the ability to translate and communicate the effect of contractual language to stakeholders. – Experience of procuring and negotiating contracts. – Experience running end-to-end RFPs for senior stakeholders. – Experience of implementing procurement policy, procedures, and governance. – Experience operating at both a tactical and strategic level with a track record of success in delivering financial savings. Role Strategy and Planning – Develop and implement category strategies to optimise cost, quality, and service levels for professional services. – Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, opportunities, and best practices. – Lead the sourcing process, including RFPs, RFQs, and contract negotiations. – Manage supplier relationships, including performance management, risk assessment, and continuous improvement initiatives. – Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and ensure alignment with category strategies. – Monitor and report on category performance, including savings, compliance, and supplier performance metrics. – Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and regulatory changes that may impact the category. – Comply with all Group Procurement policies and procedures in conjunction with department leads and department-specific requirements. Operational Management – Direct and manage sourcing strategies from beginning to end. – Define purchasing recommendations that support business goals, in collaboration with management and stakeholders. – Negotiate pricing and terms and conditions of contracts with contractors and/or service providers. – Monitor service provider, outsourcer, and/or contractor performance to ensure quality of service. – Provide periodic oversight and execution of vendor requalification. – Establish and maintain regular written and in-person communications with the organisation’s executives, department heads, and end users regarding pertinent sourcing activities. – Effectively communicate procurement strategies to team members and stakeholders in a timely and clear way. – Manage escalated issues between the service provider and the company and coordinate key mitigation actions. Desirable: – Working knowledge of the Category Management process. – MCIPs qualified or willing to work towards a CIPS qualification. – Experience working in an environment where customer needs are variable. – Experience working under category management-based approaches. – Experience implementing best practice contract and supplier management. – Proficient using PowerPoint and Excel – Experience of presenting to senior stakeholders. – Using self-directed work to draw insights in support of influencing senior stakeholders. Excellent role, team and company, apply now!!!