At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead category strategy and supplier performance in a major infrastructure business.
- Company: Join a leading infrastructure company with a focus on strategic procurement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, full benefits package, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Fast-paced career progression in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value projects and shape the future of procurement.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing complex supplier relationships.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 62000 £ per year.
This is a standout opportunity for a procurement professional to step into a highly visible Category Manager role within a major infrastructure business delivering one of the UK's largest investment programmes. Procurement sits at the heart of decision‑making here - giving you genuine influence, senior stakeholder exposure and the chance to shape strategic sourcing across high‑value, business‑critical spend areas.
You'll lead category strategy, supplier performance and commercial negotiations in a complex environment where your work will directly impact long‑term operational outcomes. With significant transformation underway, this role offers fast‑paced career progression, the opportunity to build a lasting commercial legacy and the chance to join a collaborative team where procurement is recognised as a true strategic partner to the business.
What You'll Bring:
- Strong commercial acumen and negotiation capability
- Ability to influence stakeholders and drive decision‑making
- Experience managing complex supplier relationships and contracts
- Sourcing and category planning expertise
- Confident working within fast‑paced, evolving environments
- Analytical mindset with the ability to turn insight into action
- Collaborative approach with strong communication skills
Category Manager Corporate Services (indirects) in Reading employer: 1st Executive Ltd
Join a leading infrastructure business that values procurement as a strategic partner, offering you the chance to influence key decisions and drive impactful change. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and a hybrid working model, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment that prioritises employee growth and career progression. This role not only allows you to shape category strategy but also positions you at the forefront of one of the UK's largest investment programmes, ensuring your contributions are both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager Corporate Services (indirects) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the infrastructure sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Show them you understand their business and how you can influence decision-making with your strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling! Be ready to share examples of how you've managed complex supplier relationships and driven successful outcomes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can truly shape strategic sourcing.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that dream job, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm for the role. Let's get you into that collaborative team where procurement is a strategic partner!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager Corporate Services (indirects) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Category Manager role. Highlight your commercial acumen, negotiation capabilities, and any relevant procurement experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've influenced stakeholders or managed complex supplier relationships in the past.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires an analytical mindset, don’t forget to mention any tools or methods you’ve used to turn insights into actionable strategies. We love seeing how you can make data work for you!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our collaborative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Executive Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong commercial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to procurement and be ready to discuss how you've used data to influence decisions in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led. Highlight the strategies you employed and the outcomes achieved, as this will show your capability to drive decision-making and manage supplier relationships effectively.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Research the infrastructure sector and the company's current projects. Being able to speak knowledgeably about industry trends and how they impact procurement will impress your interviewers and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical mindset and collaborative approach. Prepare to discuss how you've turned insights into actionable strategies in complex environments, as this aligns with the fast-paced nature of the role.
