At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead category strategies and drive procurement transformation at Asda.
- Company: Join Asda, a leading retailer with a commitment to innovation and customer focus.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and fantastic perks like discounts and wellbeing services.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of procurement in a major retail environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or category management; strong communication and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We’re transforming the way procurement works here at Asda. What does that mean for you? That you’ll be at the heart of decision-making and the forefront of our transformation journey.
Our team manages over £2.5 billion of indirect/goods not for resale spend, and is on a journey to become a best in class function, with a broad agenda across all areas of procurement from sourcing and cost transformation, through to sustainability and management of some of our most strategic relationships.
With opportunities to join us across multiple levels & various categories including Technology, Marketing, Professional Services, Property & FM and Logistics/Supply Chain, you’ll support a range of commercial activities, dare to find new innovative ways to drive efficiency, and help us get that #2 share in Grocery. So we can offer our customers the best value possible. That’s what it means to put customers at the heart of everything.
Your Role
If you are a Procurement expert who will enjoy the responsibility of delivering transformation activity, and helping ensure a best in class cost base within your assigned categories then this could be the opportunity for you.
You will lead the development and implementation of category strategies by providing thought and commercial leadership to cross functional colleagues and collaborating effectively in a complex environment.
The category teams need to be able to provide credible commercial guidance in often complex scenarios for categories that directly impact on operational capability so you will be exceptionally commercially astute with strong communication and negotiation skills.
Although prior experience in a relevant category role would be desirable, we are open to applications from individuals with an interest in switching categories in order to progress career development. We are interested to speak to Category Manager candidates for various categories including strong indirect/GNFR generalists.
The Specifics
- Develop category strategies to build and maintain a pipeline of delivery opportunities.
- Influence and collaborate with stakeholders to drive forward category initiatives.
- Lead on major business investments and executive priorities within the relevant function.
- Manage end-to-end sourcing activities.
- Contribute to our cost and cash programme.
- Create & maintain successful supplier relationships and develop future strategic partnerships.
“Let's find out about you”
- Proven experience in Procurement/Category Management.
- Adept at applying a variety of commercial approaches to deliver real value for the business.
- Skilled in crafting and managing complex contracts.
- Adept at balancing and anticipating the needs of various stakeholders.
- Experience in influencing senior levels within a large organisation.
- Agile and adaptable to support business needs in a dynamic transformation environment.
- Personal drive to deliver at pace whilst working on a wide range of projects.
Category Specifics
Although we are looking to recruit great procurement generalists, experience in the following category areas would be desirable, although not essential:
- Corporate services – People & HR, Legal, BPO, Banking & Financial Services.
Everything you'll love
To ensure we balance moments where we know we need to collaborate together and the need for flexibility, Asda has a hybrid way of working with a minimum 3 days a week in one of our Home Offices. Over and above this, each area of Asda may have additional requirements which may require spending more days in the office, visiting suppliers, stores or depots.
You will also get an excellent benefits package including:
- Discretionary company bonus.
- Company pension up to 7% matched.
- Company Car allowance of £5,700.
- 15% colleague discount in store and online.
- Free access to wellbeing services such as Stream, 24/7 virtual GP, counselling, health and dental cash plans and a 24/7 employee assistance helpline, alongside discounts across a range of services and activities, from airport parking, enhanced to theme parks and cinemas.
- Asda Allies Inclusion Networks – helping colleagues to make sure everybody is included and that our differences are recognised and celebrated.
- Excellent parental leave policies, including maternity & adoption leave, paternity leave, shared parental leave, neonatal care leave, and support for those doing fertility treatments.
We want all colleagues to be able to bring their best and true selves to work, every day. Simply put, we want our colleagues to be Proud to be Asda and proud to be themselves.
Category Manager employer: Asda Stores
Asda is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including a discretionary bonus, generous pension contributions, and access to wellbeing services, Asda supports its colleagues in achieving both personal and professional success. Located at Asda House, the company fosters a hybrid working environment that balances flexibility with teamwork, ensuring that every employee feels valued and included.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Asda employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role in procurement. Personal connections can give you the inside scoop!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Asda's recent initiatives in procurement. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to our transformation journey. Bring your A-game with examples of how you've driven efficiency in past roles!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to influence stakeholders and manage supplier relationships. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Asda team. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Category Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement and how it aligns with our transformation journey at Asda.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your commercial acumen! Be sure to include examples of how you've influenced stakeholders and managed complex contracts in your previous roles.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity, so don’t hesitate to share your passion for procurement and how you can contribute to our mission at Asda.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people in our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Asda Stores
✨Know Your Categories
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific categories you’ll be managing. Understand the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in those areas. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also your readiness to contribute to Asda's transformation journey.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to deliver real value through procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders and managed complex contracts in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commercial leadership skills.
✨Practice Your Negotiation Skills
As a Category Manager, strong negotiation skills are crucial. Think of scenarios where you successfully negotiated terms or resolved conflicts. Practising these stories will help you articulate your approach and effectiveness during the interview.
✨Emphasise Adaptability
Asda is looking for someone who can thrive in a dynamic environment. Prepare to discuss times when you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances or priorities. Highlighting your agility will resonate well with their transformation goals.
