At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and deliver category strategies for Site Services at AWE.
- Company: Join AWE, a leader in innovative site services management.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day working fortnight, generous leave, and a top pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving strategic sourcing and supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: CIPS Level 4 or equivalent, with experience in strategic sourcing.
The predicted salary is between 63270 - 80000 £ per year.
The Senior Category Manager will shape and deliver targeted category strategies across a diverse portfolio within the Site Services Category Management team at AWE, Reading. Compensation ranges from £63,270 to £80,000, depending on suitability, qualifications and level of experience. The role operates on a 9‑day working fortnight with the option for flexible working and on‑site parking.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement category strategies for Site Services.
- Own and manage contracts from sourcing through to delivery and ongoing management.
- Drive strategic sourcing activity including market engagement, tendering, negotiation and supplier selection.
- Build and maintain relationships with senior internal stakeholders to influence requirements, priorities and outcomes.
- Manage and develop supplier relationships to improve performance, deliver value and support long‑term partnership objectives.
- Monitor supplier performance and lead structured performance and review activities.
- Apply appropriate contracting approaches (e.g., NEC, AWE standard terms) to ensure effective risk allocation and commercial outcomes.
- Support the delivery of commercial strategies and programmes aligned to AWE’s organisational objectives.
- Lead, coach, and influence others within the function to support delivery of team and functional plans.
- Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement in line with Commercial processes and governance requirements.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- Minimum CIPS Level 4 qualification (or equivalent / working towards).
- Experience in end‑to‑end strategic sourcing including strategy, tendering, evaluation, negotiation, and award.
- Experience developing and delivering category strategies.
- Knowledge of public procurement regulations such as PCR2015 or PA23.
- Experience managing multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
- Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts and framework agreements including commercial pricing models.
- Experience working within established Procurement or Category Management functions.
- Experience working in cross‑functional teams across programmes or projects.
- Line management experience is preferred.
- Strong commercial judgement, governance focus, and ability to deliver in a highly regulated environment.
Benefits
- 9‑day working fortnight with every other Friday off.
- 270 hours of annual leave.
- Market‑leading contributory pension scheme (9%–13% employer contribution).
- Family‑friendly policies: 39‑week maternity leave full pay and 4‑week paternity leave full pay.
- Professional development funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- Life assurance (4×annual salary).
- Discounts on everyday spending.
- Special Leave Policy – paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
- Hybrid working available: typically 3 days on‑site per week.
Additional Information
This role requires a British Citizen and provision of security clearance, funded by AWE. The candidate must have resided in the UK for the past 5 years to qualify for SC clearance or 10 years for DV clearance.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and aim to create an inclusive workplace. All applicants receive equal consideration regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or other protected characteristics.
Senior Category Manager - Site Services employer: Atomic Weapons Establishment
AWE is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a 9-day working fortnight, generous annual leave, and a market-leading pension scheme, employees enjoy a balanced work-life dynamic while contributing to meaningful projects in a highly regulated environment. The company fosters inclusivity and values diverse contributions, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in category management.
Contact Details:
Atomic Weapons Establishment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager - Site Services
✨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!
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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!
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager - Site Services
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!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter to Atomic Weapons Establishment:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Atomic Weapons Establishment. 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 Atomic Weapons Establishment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Atomic Weapons Establishment
✨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!
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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 Atomic Weapons Establishment!
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✨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 Atomic Weapons Establishment's culture.
