At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies for MRO and auto parts across Europe and Asia-Pacific.
- Company: Join Avis Budget Group, a leader in the rental industry with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on operational excellence and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising procurement strategies and supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with expertise in MRO and auto parts.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Bracknell, Berkshire, On site
Position Summary: The Senior Category Manager – MRO, Maintenance & Automotive Damage Parts will be based in our Bracknell, UK office and will lead the development of sourcing and supplier strategies for Avis Budget Group’s spend across hundreds of rental locations in Asia-Pacific and Europe. This role is responsible for developing and supporting the execution of end-to-end category procurement strategies, managing supplier performance, and driving cost savings while ensuring operational excellence. The position requires deep expertise in MRO and automotive parts, including vended maintenance, as well as strong collaboration skills to effectively align with cross-functional stakeholders.
What you’ll do:
- Strategic Sourcing & Vendor Management: Develop and implement comprehensive aligned sourcing strategies for MRO / auto parts as well as vended maintenance. Ensure the development of agreements and supplier relationships which secure competitive terms and conditions to mitigate risks related to cost volatility, regulations, and market dynamics. Drive compliance to sourcing strategies across a fragmented supplier base, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and delivery of savings goals. Build and maintain supplier relationships through Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), maximizing value across cost, service, and quality.
- Operational & Global Alignment: Work closely with the regional and local procurement operations teams to ensure development of the most cost-efficient, service optimized supply chains from suppliers to retail sites which includes creation and operationalization of best-in-class inventory management processes. Support the development and implementation of standardized international procurement practices. Share and leverage cross-market best practices to enhance global procurement performance. Collaborate closely with operations, finance, and global procurement teams to ensure strategies meet business needs and deliver measurable outcomes.
- Risk & Performance Management: Monitor supplier performance, ensuring accountability to service levels, quality standards, and contractual obligations. Proactively identify and address supply chain, labor, and cost-related risks. Develop and report on KPIs to measure savings, compliance, and overall supplier effectiveness.
You should apply if you bring:
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
- 10+ years of progressive procurement experience, with expertise in MRO, auto parts, vended maintenance industries.
- Proven success in building and executing sourcing strategies across fragmented supplier bases, including driving compliance and alignment.
- Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills with the ability to influence across functions and levels.
- Solid negotiation, contracting, and supplier relationship management skills.
- Strong analytical and communication abilities with a track record of delivering business-aligned procurement outcomes.
Senior MRO & Auto Parts Sourcing Lead in Bracknell employer: Avis Budget Group International
At Avis Budget Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bracknell that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement within our global network. With a focus on operational excellence and strategic sourcing, we empower our team members to make impactful contributions while enjoying a supportive culture that values diversity and teamwork.
Contact Details:
Avis Budget Group International Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior MRO & Auto Parts Sourcing Lead in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their sourcing strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you mean business!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Whether it’s discussing salary or supplier terms, being confident in your abilities will set you apart. Role-play with a friend to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior MRO & Auto Parts Sourcing Lead in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in MRO and automotive parts, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
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 your past successes in sourcing and supplier management, and don’t forget to express your enthusiasm for joining our team at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various teams, make sure to highlight your collaboration skills in your application. We love seeing candidates who can effectively align with cross-functional stakeholders, so share any relevant experiences that demonstrate this ability.
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our awesome team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avis Budget Group International
✨Know Your MRO & Auto Parts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of MRO and automotive parts. Understand the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the industry. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Sourcing Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of sourcing strategies you've developed in the past. Be ready to explain how you managed supplier relationships and drove cost savings. Use metrics to back up your achievements – numbers speak volumes!
✨Demonstrate Collaboration and Stakeholder Management
This role requires strong collaboration skills, so think of instances where you've successfully worked with cross-functional teams. Highlight how you influenced stakeholders and aligned procurement strategies with business needs. Real-life examples will make your case stronger.
✨Prepare for Risk Management Questions
Expect questions about how you've handled supply chain risks in the past. Be prepared to discuss your approach to monitoring supplier performance and addressing issues proactively. Showing that you can think ahead and mitigate risks will set you apart from other candidates.
