At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing projects and manage high-value procurement programmes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a leading procurement function.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Ideal for established professionals ready to take ownership of procurement initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by managing complex procurement projects independently.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic sourcing and category management.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Category Manager - Operations to join a busy Category Sourcing function, supporting a significant portfolio of operational, asset and maintenance-related procurement activity. The role will take ownership of a substantial pipeline of strategic procurement projects covering physical assets, maintenance contracts, equipment, operational services and associated commercial arrangements. Given the scale, complexity and pace of the procurement pipeline, this position requires an experienced procurement professional who can operate autonomously, lead complex sourcing projects and add value from day one.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end strategic sourcing and procurement projects.
- Develop and implement effective category and sourcing strategies.
- Manage complex, high-value procurement programmes and tender exercises.
- Lead regulated and competitive procurement processes.
- Develop commercial models, pricing structures and evaluation methodologies.
- Lead supplier negotiations and support contract award decisions.
- Build strong relationships with operational, engineering and technical stakeholders.
- Provide commercial and procurement expertise throughout the sourcing lifecycle.
- Support longer-term category planning, supplier strategy and procurement delivery.
- Manage multiple projects and competing priorities while maintaining strong governance and commercial outcomes.
Typical Spend Areas
- Operational assets
- Maintenance contracts
- Equipment supply
- Hire agreements
- Hire purchase arrangements
- Operational service contracts
- Asset-related services and commercial arrangements
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be an experienced Category Manager with a strong strategic sourcing background and a proven track record of independently delivering complex procurement projects. You will be commercially astute, confident managing multiple tenders simultaneously and comfortable working with senior operational, engineering and technical stakeholders. Experience within utilities, infrastructure, engineering, asset management or maintenance environments would be highly advantageous.
Preferred Experience
- Proven end-to-end procurement and sourcing leadership.
- Strong category strategy development experience.
- Experience within utilities, infrastructure or other complex operational environments.
- Asset management procurement.
- Maintenance and engineering procurement.
- Experience with regulated or public sector procurement.
- Strong knowledge of the Procurement Act and associated procurement processes.
- Complex commercial modelling and evaluation methodology development.
- Supplier negotiation and contract award experience.
- Demonstrable ability to manage complex procurement programmes independently.
Who This Role Is Suited To
This opportunity is aimed at an established Category Manager who is already operating independently and has experience leading complex procurement projects from strategy through to contract award. The hiring team is not looking for someone making their first move from Buyer or Senior Buyer into Category Management. Candidates whose experience is predominantly focused on purchasing, transactional procurement, procurement administration or tactical sourcing are unlikely to have the level of strategic and commercial ownership required.
The successful candidate will need to demonstrate:
- The ability to independently lead complex tenders.
- Strong strategic sourcing and category management experience.
- Commercial modelling capability.
- Confidence managing multiple procurement projects simultaneously.
- Experience engaging and influencing operational and technical stakeholders.
- The ability to take ownership of complex procurement programmes with minimal support.
This is a delivery-focused Category Manager position, rather than a development opportunity for someone looking to take their first step into category management.
Procurement Category Manager - Operations & Infrastructure employer: 1st Executive Ltd
As an Assistant Quantity Surveyor with us, you'll thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters professional growth. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while our commitment to employee development ensures you have access to training and mentorship opportunities that will enhance your career in the construction consultancy sector. Join us and be part of a collaborative culture that prioritises innovation and excellence in every project.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager - Operations & Infrastructure
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like 1st Executive Ltd.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Manager - Operations & Infrastructure
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to 1st Executive Ltd:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to 1st Executive Ltd. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like 1st Executive Ltd.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Executive Ltd
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at 1st Executive Ltd!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at 1st Executive Ltd. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into 1st Executive Ltd's culture.
