At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive innovative procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships for IT and professional services.
- Company: Join Ardagh Group, a leader in sustainable packaging with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values change and customer orientation.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Qualifications: University degree and 5-10 years of procurement or related experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As the European procurement category manager for IT, Professional Services & Energy, the role holder will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and delivering value across multiple levers. This role will drive best in-class procurement practice and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations are met.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with key stakeholders to understand business requirements and align category strategies including sourcing execution.
- Support budget planning, cost modelling and TCO evaluation for in-scope categories.
- Identify, assess and manage supplier relationships to ensure performance, compliance and continuous improvement.
- Develop and negotiate commercial contract terms in collaboration with legal.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and apply best practices to the categories.
- Implement regional pillar of the category strategy contributing to the overall procurement and business strategy.
- Continuously drive adoption and development of new opportunities by integrating innovative ideas.
Key Requirements
- University degree.
- Any procurement certification is a plus.
- Comfortable working with Microsoft Office programs.
- 5 to 10 years of working experience in Procurement (or comparable e.g. Supply Chain, Consulting with relevant connection to IT).
- Proven ability to work in a cross-functional team in a multicultural organisation.
- Advanced analytical and negotiation skills.
- Sourcing and contracting; preferably sourcing and contracting of IT (Software, Hardware, Infrastructure, Telecommunication).
- Advanced stakeholder management and project execution skills.
- Effective communication and influencing skills, ability to convince and persuade others.
- Ability to think globally and act locally, combined with strategic direction and flawless operational execution.
- Fluency in English.
Key Ardagh behavioural skills: Change leader, customer oriented, target-driven, cross-collaborative, building high-performing teams, & lead by example.
Ardagh Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.
Procurement Category Manager in Chester employer: Ardagh Group
Ardagh Group is an excellent employer located in Wrexham, offering a dynamic work environment where production shift operators can thrive. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we provide comprehensive benefits including Private Medical Insurance and a Competitive Pension Plan, alongside ample opportunities for career advancement within the company. Join us to be part of a team that values safety, quality, and personal growth in a high-speed production setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager in Chester
✨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 Ardagh Group.
✨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 in Chester
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 Ardagh Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Ardagh Group. 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 Ardagh Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ardagh Group
✨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 Ardagh Group!
✨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 Ardagh Group. 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 Ardagh Group's culture.
