At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage sourcing and contracts, ensuring compliance and delivering value across categories.
- Company: Join B. Braun, a diverse and innovative company committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, a bonus scheme, and a strong pension contribution.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a supportive team environment and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while collaborating globally and driving improvements.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We’re seeking a commercially focused Category Specialist to manage sourcing and contracts across your category. You’ll lead end to end procurement activity, working with internal stakeholders and suppliers to deliver value, ensure compliance, and support strategic procurement initiatives across the UK and globally.
Working hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday (Hybrid, two days at home and three days on‑site)
Location: Thorncliffe Park, Sheffield, S35 2PW – located just off Junction 35A of the M1. We offer free car parking.
Your main responsibilities
- Contract Governance & Compliance - Develop and manage contracts in line with legal, regulatory, and internal procurement policies, ensuring audit readiness and adherence to processes
- Performance & Value Delivery - Monitor supplier performance against KPIs, drive accountability, and deliver cost savings, value, and service improvements
- Data, Analysis & Reporting - Conduct market, spend, and demand analysis to identify opportunities; track and report savings, cost movements, and performance metrics
- Procurement Operations & Process Improvement - Ensure compliance with procurement systems and processes, supporting efficient purchasing and identifying opportunities to improve ways of working
- Global Collaboration - Support global procurement initiatives and work with regional and international teams to share insight and drive category strategy
What you need to succeed
- Proven experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management
- Strong negotiation and influencing skills, with the ability to deliver commercial value
- Experience managing contracts and supplier relationships end‑to‑end
- Confident communicator, able to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels
- Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and drive cost‑saving opportunities
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- A proactive, solution‑focused mindset with a drive for continuous improvement
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and compliance
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office and procurement systems
What you get in return
- 27 days annual leave
- Discretionary annual bonus scheme
- 7% employer pension contribution
- 3x Salary life assurance
- Group income protection scheme
- Enhanced sick pay and family friendly payments
- Health and wellbeing programme
- Employee assistance programme
- And much more ...
At B. Braun, we believe that diversity drives innovation and excellence. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone – regardless of background, identity, or ability – feels valued, respected and empowered. Our recruitment practices reflect this commitment, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Category Specialist in Sheffield employer: B. Braun Group
At B. Braun, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and innovation. As a Category Specialist based in Thorncliffe Park, Sheffield, you will benefit from a hybrid working model, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive benefits package including a 7% employer pension contribution and a discretionary bonus scheme. We are dedicated to your professional growth, providing opportunities for collaboration on global procurement initiatives while ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Specialist in Sheffield
✨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 B. Braun 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 Category Specialist in Sheffield
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 B. Braun Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to B. Braun 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 B. Braun Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at B. Braun 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 B. Braun 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 B. Braun 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 B. Braun Group's culture.
